This past Friday, Amana and Anlynn got to take part in the Minden Cheerleading Camp! As a former cheerleader myself, I was super excited for them! Amana needed a little convincing...the whole "performing in front of a lot of people" thing. But we talked about it and she finally agreed with a smile. I don't want to be the kind of mom who pushes her kids into things that terrify them, but I also don't want them to miss out on fun and amazing things because they're a little nervous.

The camp started at 4pm and then they were to perform during half-time for the girls basketball game. I decked them out in Whippet colors (lots of purple, white and black!) and took them up to the gym. As soon as they saw the real cheerleaders, they forgot all about me and being scared, and ran off! I didn't know that to do with myself and only ONE child for 2 hours, so Harrison and I got a snack and watched "Driving Miss Daisy"...yes, in the middle of the day! Then Lige got home, we grabbed the camera and headed to the game.

I couldn't wait for the first half to get over! I was so nervous and excited for the girls, I could hardly stand myself! Finally it was time and, with the camera swung around my neck, I got into picture-taking position!

THEY DID AWESOME!!

It's one of those things that when it's over, you have no idea what the other kids looked like, because you are so focused on your own precious performers! They did 3 or 4 cheers and then a short dance routine. Amana was in her element. The girl was workin' it and she had the best, biggest smile! Anlynn was one of the youngest there. She clung to the hand of a patient cheerleader and did her best! At the end, Amana was jumping up & down and throwing kisses to the crowd! I'm not kidding...it brought tears to my eyes to see her so happy and confident.

Some of you who know me well, know that I am not a huge fan of large groups. However, you also know that to perform in front of large groups is another story! I loved cheering in high school and I loved performing in our show choir. So to see my Amana girl go from weeping her way through her preschool program last April, to the brave, confident, ethusiastic cheerleader now...was a memory moment for this mama. I am so proud of her.