The Busy-ness of Six Year Olds

The girls are involved in a lot of activities these days. Too many, probably. It's a difficult balance, because I want them to explore their interests and figure out what they like. I also want to encourage them to stick with things when they make a commitment. And I try to push them in certain directions, knowing that I always regretted my lack of athletic ability and thought that perhaps I could have been at least average if only I'd had some lessons and practice when I was younger. So, all those many thoughts jumbled together, along with two little girls who are excited about trying new things, have resulted in a very busy schedule: church (twice a week), ballet, gymnastics, tennis, Daisies twice a month, talent show rehearsals, and soon horseback riding. We've talked about dropping gymnastics, but there are other things they want to try. It's exhausting. I know that we'll need to make some decisions before next year, when homework will become more of an issue. I hope they'll continue to dance (their dance instructor is already talking to them about being on the mini-competition team, so that would be an even greater commitment). And I hope they'll keep playing tennis. I love watching them on Saturday mornings. Abby still has a great backhand, and Sarah is really good at the volley. They're starting to move to the ball, and can easily hit it over the net from anywhere on the court.