Ballerina Girl, You Are So Lovely

I am a mom so I get bragging rights. Anna recently started her 2nd year of dance lessons -- ballet and tap. What a difference a year makes! Anna is so serious and I think would go to class every day instead of her once a week Tuesday evening class. Recital won't be until June but already she wants to practice her dances she will perform and is wondering when she gets measured for her costume and more importantly what will it look like and when will it come??

I have to admit I live somewhat vicariously through Anna with this dance thing. I too took dance lessons when I was a youngster -- not as young as her -- and loved it as well. I didn't get the elaborate costumes, the fancy hair and the makeup. But I know how much I would have enjoyed it. Don't get me wrong -- I am not pushing Anna into this and cringe at the thought of her having her hair and makeup done the way it is done for recital for anything outside of recital -- she is only 4 after all. But it gives me such good feelings inside to see her enjoy this so much and I hope the love of it continues. Not just for the costumes but for the discipline, the poise and the confidence I think it can give her.

Here are a few photos snapped last weekend before Anna headed to class on Saturday morning to make up her missed class earlier in the week due to my being at Religion class with Ryan (note I have not yet figured out how to be in two places at once). I totally see why Bill loves to sing to her "Ballerina girl, you are so lovely" from the Lionel Richie song Ballerina Girl.