She just keeps trying

Today was the first day of tennis lessons for Inwe. She has asked for lessons all year. I delayed until the summer so that I wouldn't be stretched too thin in the spring. I got myself tied into knots with everything as it was.

Inwe's strength is her mind. Physical prowess is not her domain, but she is at the age where she doesn't notice that other kids are better than she is. Phill did a bit of practicing with her last night, but he bought her a racket that was too long with a handle that was too large. Should I have gone with her to buy the racket? Yes, but it was a daddy/daughter thing. Phill might have three degrees, but that doesn't mean he pays attention to the size of a tennis racket for a little girl.

With a borrowed smaller racket, she did just fine today. Is she good at hitting the ball? Not at all. I think she got it over the net once. When she was taught to hit right in front of her face (for a non-bouncing shot that can be seen in doubles), she did a good job at getting it over the net.

Towards the end of the lesson the kids played a game of snake, which is a way of working on foot work and movement. Inwe told me she enjoyed herself and had fun. She was sweaty, thirsty, and hungry. If this week goes well, I'll sign her up for most of the summer. It's just $20 per week.