I'm Lindsay Ferrier, a Nashville writer with a passion for family travel, exploring Tennessee, and raising kids without losing my mind in the process. This is where I share my discoveries, along with occasional deep thoughts, pop culture tangents and a sprinkling of snark. Want to get in touch? Use the CONTACT form at the top of the page.
November 24, 2008
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Who knew this season would contain so many milestones in my daughter’s short life? Just in the last few months, Punky has started to read, she’s taken her first pony ride (something she’s been waiting a lifetime to do), and today, she performed before an audience for the first time.
It was Parent Observation Day at Punky’s ballet class. As moms and dads and sisters and brothers entered the room and began sitting in the chairs placed out for them, the girls clearly were thrilled by all the attention.
Punky took the floor before class began, giggling and skipping in a big circle, getting a feel for her newfound audience. Soon the other girls giddily rushed out to do the same, reveling in their parents’ undivided attention.
Once the program got underway, each girl took a turn galloping solo in front of the adults. As Punky started off on her run, she looked over at the sea of smiling faces… and had A Moment. A Moment that I managed to capture with my camera.
They like me! They really, really like me! You could see that thought written all over her face. This may very well be the moment I will forever look back on as the instant Punky was bitten by the Drama Bug.
Because from then on, our girl Hammed. It. Up.
She danced like her feet were on fire…
…And she never, ever forgot her audience.
In this no-pressure atmosphere, the girls performed with pure joy and excitement.
There were no costume changes, no makeup, no sets, no dimmed lights. We were in a small, carpeted room at the local community center. And you know what?
It didn’t matter one bit.
Punky ended her performance as pleased with herself as any Prima Ballerina.
She curtseyed solemnly for her adoring fans.
And for the hundred thousandth time, I declared to myself that she had never, ever been more delightful.
This post originally appeared on Parents.com.
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