The joy of giving

My father has wanted a big screen TV for years. He's been scrounging up his loose change and any extra cash for a while, and finally decided last week he was ready to buy one. The thing is, hubby and I have also been trying to save for a TV for him for a long time. We'd hoped to have one by his 60th birthday this past summer - in the end, we couldn't afford it and had to get him something else.

But we're close, now, so we decided to get him one before he goes out and gets one himself. So today, they watched the kids while we ran errands - and we came home with an awesome 42" Sharp Aqueos. We spent a couple of hundred more than planned, but there was a huge sale on the TV, so we went for it anyway. It was worth it to see my dad. He's flabbergasted. He tried to refuse it, to say he'd pay - so instead hubby suggested he use his extra cash for an HD digital cable box, and all the necessary wiring. They're over at my parents now hooking everything up.

I feel great to have bought my parents the television. They have been so helpful over the years. We hit some rough times for a while, including some maternity leave moments when there just wasn't always enough money at the end of the month for diapers or bills. My parents never said no to us. The TV can't begin to make up for all they've done (and continue to do) for us, but I'm glad I'm able to make them so happy with such a little thing.

Today was dance day. The plan was that our two year old would continue in the same class she's been in - a parent and tot class for 1.5-3 year olds. And our three year old would be in the four year old creative movement class. Well, for the second week in a row, our two year old freaked out in class. Last week we thought she was shy. Today it was clearly something else. She tantrumed, wouldn't even look at her teacher (who she adored before Christmas), refused to move, and eventually asked to leave.

We were shocked. Our little ballerina wanted out of class?!?! I wondered if maybe if had to do with the fact the students in her class are now all younger - closer to 18 months - and none of them have dance outfits. It doesn't "feel" like a dance class at all.

We had to hang around for a while anyway until our three year old's class. During that time, the school administrator, as dismayed as us about our youngest's sudden change, suggested we try her in the four year old class, which was similar, but had some added exercises - and of course, without parents. Wouldn't you know it, she loved it and did great. So now, at 2.5 years old, she'll be in class with about 10 older girls and boys. I don't get to watch the class until much later in the session - maybe even not until May. But her old teacher went and peaked for me, and came up really proud and excited, saying she was doing wonderfully!

My three year old also loved classes, much to my relief. She might not have been as enthusiastic as gym, but I feel better about it, personally.

Tomorrow we're back in the pool, the whole gang, by 8:30. Yikes!