E was asked to move up to the next level in gymnastics. She's very proud of herself and excited. I thought I'd be excited, but I'm feeling very torn right now.

Part of it is the money. Paying for seven hours a week of gymnastics is NOT CHEAP. And if she continues, it will only increase.

Part of it is her schedule. During the summer, seven hours isn't bad. But once she starts first grade, she'll have to be picked up from school in order to get to the gym on time, and then she'll have practice from 4-6 twice a week and 4-7 one day a week. So essentially she'll be gone from 8 a.m. to 6:30 or 7:30 three days a week. And that's not counting ballet or tap which she desperately wants to keep doing.

And part of it is her. Is this actually what she wants? To be pushed and pushed and pushed to do things that are very intimidating for her? To miss out on after school playtime three or four days a week so she can condition in the gym?

I previously told her about a cooking class offered by our park district this summer. She loves to cook and was very excited about possibly doing the class. It's just for little kids. Well, I just realized the class is during her 3-hour gym workout. She won't be able to do the cooking class.

I'm torn. I feel so proud of her for working so hard for this. It's a fantastic opportunity and really is a wonderful challenge for her. She'll get physically stronger, but also learn about endurance, perseverance, and conquering fear. She'll also experience the fun of being part of a team. It's an awesome opportunity for her.

But I feel like it's taking my little girl away. She's growing up too fast. Will she have time to just play once school starts? Will she be able to do the mazes, puzzles, crafts and silly princess games that she loves?

I thought I'd be so excited for this, but instead I'm really sad.