Ballet and Horses

It is hard to believe that our children are old enough that we are getting into the whole sports/ activities arena.  Zoe will continue therapeutic horse back riding again this year.  We are extremely grateful and lucky to receive a grant from the Jennifer Ashley Foundation that will cover the cost of two therapy blocks (the year consists of three blocks).  We have seen a change in Zoe's muscle tone and even her ability to focus while sitting.  We went to the zoo on Sunday (we are loving that membership!) and Zoe did an amazing job sitting up on the carousel.  Gavin gave her guidance support on her legs but Zoe was able to hold her trunk up and steady while holding on to the handle!  The girls chose a double crocodile to sit on so Ailsa was right behind Zoe.

So What About Ailsa?

We are always conscious of making sure Ailsa gets plenty of our attention and resources.  We asked Ailsa if she would like to be involved in something this year.  We did swimming classes in the past.  Ailsa asked about joining an ice hockey team.  This girl is obsessed with hockey!  When we talk about going to Kindergarten next year, Ailsa asked, "Do they have a good hockey team?"  She was disappointed to know that 3 year olds do not play on teams.  So she decided to do ballet instead.  She determined (yes, this was her idea) that she would do ballet to help her get ready for hockey and that she would learn to ice skate this winter.  So far Ailsa LOVES ballet.  Every morning she asks, "Is this a ballet day?"  The only other day that competes for her attention is yoga day at school.  If we say, "No, it is not a ballet day."  She immediately says, "Well, is it a yoga day then?"

Ailsa was practicing ballet last night.  Apparently an important part of practice is wiggling her hips.  We got her a helmet because you have to wear a full helmet if you ice skate on any city owned ice.  We got her some skates from a thrift shop so she is ready to go!  You can guess who picked the colour for the helmet!