Little (well-behaved) Dancers

Every time I dress the girls for dance class, I get a little sad. They look so grown up in those tights and skirts, hair pulled back. I can't believe they are only 4 years old when I see them like that. Still, I wish they could stay little for always. I know they won't. They even act like little grown ups a good bit of the time.

Just last night at dance class, I experienced one of those shoulders squared, chest puffed out incidents of complete parental proudness. It is the norm for Grace and Maggie to mind their manners, especially when we're out in public. And, I have noticed that they seem older, more mature than the other 4 and 5 year old girls in their class. They listen intently to their instructor. They do their best when it's their turn. The teacher has not had to stop class on their account. Other parents are noticing. And last night, two moms came over to me and said, "Your girls are always so good. They are such good listeners. And there are TWO of them. What's your secret?"

Chest puffy, shoulders squared moment! I'm ready to tell them that my girls are exceptional! Chris and I are good parents! Involved parents! They are loved! But instead what I say is truly what I believe. "They are good kids. But, ladies, they have their moments. I don't know why it is, but they tend to save those moments for home -- just for our eyes. They're not perfect. We're not perfect. FAR from it. But for whatever reason, they tend to give me a break when we're out. Just don't decide to come home with us. The meltdowns hit at about 7 every night." Both moms seemed relieved to hear that my kids were every bit as normal as theirs -- just on a different time schedule!

Still, I am very proud of the way they tend to carry themselves at special events, pre-K class, weddings, funerals, gymnastics, dance class, etc. We are very fortunate. And, they DO seem so much older because of their behavior. I left dance class feeling a little proud and a little sad. But mostly proud. I think Maggie must've sensed something a little off with me. Because as I started the car, she said to me, "Mommy, when we get home can I lay on the couch, watch TV and suck my thumb?" And just like that, I was grinning from ear to ear. They are truly 4 years old! Not 14. Four. And I can live with that ... for now.