I know, gymnastics is a recurring theme here. Imani and Joy took gymnastics throughout the year, and then they had a recital.

During the year, I had asked their teacher if she could challenge the girls more. It looked like class was too easy for both of them. The teacher did challenge them, especially Joy. When it came time to recommend girls for pre-team gymnastics, she recommended Joy, not Imani. I looked at their evaluations and noticed that Joy had scored higher than her big sister, and, watching them, I saw that some things that were very hard for Imani were easy for Joy.

So Joy tried out for team, and has been in gymnastics class all summer. And Imani has watched from the lobby, and practiced with her at home. Tonight, Imani got to take a class of her own. She will be in class with her friend Lavender, who has taken gymnastics since she was 2 1/2 years old.

Imani was so excited and flushed when she came out of class tonight. She told of how well she did her cartwheels and round-offs. I’d watched her working on her chin-up pullovers and back hip circles. I’d also watched the teacher break down a left handed cartwheel for Imani, too. I’m hoping this class will help her get over the rough stuff so she can join her sister on the team.