Thanks, Lara. That sounds like great advice.

I've been doing Ashtanga yoga on and off for about 9 years and I still feel like a beginner. I think that is the key for me to really enjoying it. It's not about mastering a pose -- it's just about being in that class on that day. Honestly, on some days I can get into a great downward dog, do a really smooth vinysa, and hold a balance pose really well; and on others I am stiff as a board and can't even start a balance pose. Each class and each day is totally different. I will be a beginner at yoga for the rest of my life, and I want it that way.

Our yoga teacher does a great job of mixing things up so that we don't do the same poses all the time. We like it that way because we are challenged. The only thing is that I do have to battle with OA, and some days are more difficult than others. Still, like you say, it's not about being perfect; it's about sticking with it.

I finally did tree pose in my bare feet today. Yippee!