Today Ads had her first ever gymnastics competition. Last year we had already committed to her attending a Birthday Party the day of the competition so she didn't participate, even still she was awarded the "Most Promising Infant" trophy which was displayed in our home until the following year. This year we really had no expectations for Ads and to be honest were dreading the entire day sitting in the Gym watching and waiting to find out how she had performed. John and I both thought Ads did really well and were really pleased with her work on all the elements. All the girls in her group looked really good so we knew that the competition would be close. Ads isn't a competitive person at all, so motivating her to push herself hard is a real challenge. John and I rack our brains trying to find ways to motivate this child, but she isn't motivated by anything materialistic and she finds the greatest amount of joy in seeing others happy. Beating someone else means that they will be unhappy so it is not uncommon for us to see her slow down in a race and let someone beat her. I know this all sound slovenly, but it is also important to do your best and not hold back at times. We are trying to embrace her natural desire to make others happy and to encourage her to also do the very best she can do, sometimes meaning that she will beat someone else, it's tricky. We truly love this child to bits, but she can rest on her laurels and it can be frustrating.
Beam was the last event of the day and we were all tired and ready for them to announce the winners so that we could GO HOME! They announced the places and lo and behold, Ads took Gold! Not only did she take Gold, but she also took the trophy for the highest alls round score for 7 and unders in the gym. We were so so proud of Ads, but not nearly as proud as she was of herself.
Phillippa was Ads coach this year and did a fantastic job of pushing her, rehearsing her, and encouraging her. We all loved Phillippa and wish that she could be Ads coach forever.
The trophy gets to stay with us for another year and then it is returned at the years end to go to the next gymnast to win at the competition. Two trophy's in 2 years? You can imagine how pleased Ads was feeling.
On the podium feeling very official. After a long day we were surprised and thrilled to take home Gold and to celebrate with a special treat of McDonald's, the dinner of champions…
