When you were little and lived with us you would often put on a show, using the green outer carpet strip in the Great Room as your “balance beam.”  As we’d watch, you’d bend your body into every imaginable position, spin around, lift legs and arms and work hard to stay on the beam.

At the beach every summer, for years now, you’ve enjoyed walking & balancing on the driftwood logs I line up in a straight row, followed by flat-topped rocks and boards.  That’s your beach balance beam.

You’ve always been coordinated, climbing everything at a young age (something your sister inherited from you) and fearless, unafraid to be upside down or moving fast.

Despite having the talent and interest, you haven’t been involved in any gymnastics class or school for a couple years.  That’s why I was happy when you told me you were now going to gymnastics at UNH in Durham, with Lucy from across the street, one of your best friends.

Hooray!

Grammy and I enjoyed seeing you do your thing at a recent gymnastics show at UNH. Despite having many parents  and guests there taking in the show, you were undeterred and unafraid, proud to display what you had learned.

Keep up the great work Ainsley and stick with it!