Is well-rounding considered torture in some cultures?

Last night was Lennon and Riley’s piano recital. It was awesome. The kids did so well. No wonder Linda Herzog offered to teach Riley for free—most of her students are a result of our referral. Just kidding, but I wonder if that’s why she felt she could accomplish it without charging him. She offered, by the way, because Riley is really kicking about taking piano right now. I have to say though, his music last night was far and away the best. And I’m not just a biased mother (I don’t think). Cassie had some difficult pieces she played, but it wasn’t the same. Perhaps she was just nervous, but Riley really nailed his—he put feeling into them, he played them well, and he just looked like a natural. And Linda has mentioned more than once that he’s her best student. He played three pieces, and she put him last, I guess as kind of her "crown jewel" or something. It was cute.

So here’s my struggle: what do I do with my son who has met the requirement I set for quitting piano? I told him he needed to either choose a sport (something year-round, but we’ll get to that later), choose another instrument, or learn five hymns. Well, he chose skiing. Not a year-round sport, you say, and I reminded him of that. He also would like to participate in track and swimming, though, so he’s got himself covered. And what do I do when that child is clearly gifted in the area he's wanting to quit? I'm not suggesting he's a protege or anything, but he really does have a talent.

While I’m thrilled he’s decided to participate in sports (finally), I really think he’d be sorry if he quit piano. I have tried logic, reason, pleading, and even the offer of a break for a few months. So finally last night I just told him that he couldn’t quit, but that he could have a break during the ski season. He’s already signed up for skiing, and he’s excited about that, so I figure I don’t want to come down too hard on him. I’m also going to call Skyline and get him on their junior swim team. I think he’d be great at that, too.

Wish me luck in my quest for a well-rounded child. ;)

On another note, we made the cutest gingerbread house over the weekend! It was awesome. I say was because once we got photos of it, it was fair eating. Shame. It was a great addition to our decor. For pics, go to my facebook page and have a look-see.