tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-226281312024-03-12T18:50:15.008-07:00Cheer MomKindra Beauprey is the Director/Owner of Liberty Bell Spirit Squad, a youth cheerleading program in Western Washinton. She is the mother of three fabulous boys and the step-mom to two wonderful girls.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-17463960885971823342010-08-24T05:37:00.000-07:002010-08-24T06:02:08.666-07:00Exhaustion - who said it has to be bad?Work, football, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">cheerleading</span>, church, housework, repeat.<br /><br />This season of my life seems to be busier than normal. Don't get me wrong, it would be silly of me to complain about being busy as that is part of my identify. I thrive when stretched thin, I do my best work when I am faced with a deadline. This late summer/early fall is definitely a new level of busy for my family and I am LOVING IT!<br /><br />My day job is heading into an abnormally busy season as we end our fiscal year and enter our annual planning and review season. Fun times, earlier starts on my day keep me from staying up late and wasting too much time on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Facebook</span> or random web searches.<br /><br />My#3 son is playing football for 5 Star and he is really flourishing with an excellent coaching staff. I couldn't have hand picked a better group of kids, parents and coaches for his particular personality and needs. Plus, I LOVE football. Probably more than I should love a sport, maybe even more than <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">cheerleading</span>. Did I say that <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">outloud</span>? <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shhh</span>, don't tell anyone.<br /><br />Son #1 heads off to his sophomore year in high school, gasp, 10<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> grade - <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">oy</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">vey</span>. He is doing wonderfully well and, sigh, very <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">adulty</span> now. Certainly not mamma's little boy any more.<br /><br />Son #2 is starting tennis, a sport I believe he will excel at, I just wish there was more for him to do in this sport at this age. High School will provide more opportunity, but for now it is shuttling him to private lessons and giving him some of my time to beat me on the court.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cheerleading</span> Team #1 - <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">LBSS</span> - I love these kids. Camp was great, a stretch for our team - a new opportunity to grow and experience coaching from a different perspective and choreography at a new pace. Season is just starting and Coach Rosie is back to help kick us into gear! We are returning national champions and expect our competition to hit it hard. We have only one way to go - UP and we don't have any opportunity for complacency.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cheerleading</span> Team #2 - yes I said it, number two. I didn't have enough going on so I decided to take on a recreation team that cheers for the 5 Star Football program. 26 girls, most of them are 13, we are just getting started and I know what you are thinking :) - But we do not have any drama, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">dissension</span> or discord at all. This is a team of girls who have little cheer experience and are working their buns off to get ready for football season. I am honored to lead them this year together with two coordinators (who are awesomely fun) and expect GREATNESS from them.<br /><br />That is enough rambling for today, but I am sharing this to encourage you to get off the COUCH! Start <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">pursuing</span> those things that matter. Engage in the lives of those around you - make a difference. It is possible to be a mom and have a life of your own. I wish I had a little more time to clean my house and cook regular meals every night, but nobody has ever died from a few cob webs and semi-home cooked meals, right?<br /><br />Live, dream - DO IT, don't wait for the right time. Make a difference in the life of a young person this year. Do that thing God has been whispering into your ear. You are not too old or too young or too busy. You can! I believe it. There is nothing wrong with falling into bed exhausted every day. You will sleep soundly - I do, every night.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-91252141168084835382010-05-27T08:43:00.000-07:002010-05-27T08:43:35.311-07:00Lead with OptimismLove this link from Harvard Business Review!<br /><a href="http://blogs.hbr.org/tjan/2010/05/lead-with-optimism.html">Lead with Optimism</a>Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-82978109131414231702010-01-24T08:00:00.000-08:002010-01-24T08:13:23.779-08:00Smiling in My Own MirrorI was reading a book this morning, <u>Yesterday, I Cried</u> by Iyanla Vanzant. There is a passion that stirred me and warrants printing here:<br /><br />"I had forgotten to celebrate my strength and my victories. I thought that would be selfish... I had never thanked my Self for all that I had gotten me through... I know there are far too many people suffering alone from experiences that are common to us all. Experiences that we have come through with flying colors but are ashamed to talk about and afraid to celebrate. After all, <em>what would people think</em> should we be caught smiling in our own mirror?"<br /><br /><br /><br />Hmmm. What a unique way to view life, isn't it? I can certainly celebrate for surviving some things in my past. We all can, right? Have I characterized self celebration as arrogance? Probably. I want to look myself in the mirror each day and smile, not because I am so great, but because with God all things are possible. He has used the broken places in my life for His glory. What the enemy meant for destruction, God has used for good.<br /><br /><br /><br />I can hold the hand of a young, single mother and know that she needs a babysitter for Saturday morning so she can go to the grocery store alone, some extra cash and a new pair of sassy shoes. I don't have to ask. I can comfort the broken hearts of divorcees. I can pray without asking for some of these needs because I have been there. I understand the needs of parents with high energy children. I can see the value in children who talk too much and move too frequently. It isn't an issue because I HAVE BEEN THERE!Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-12662754539130365342009-11-04T00:40:00.001-08:002009-11-04T00:40:57.010-08:00Sandra Bullock has got this right!<a href="http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2009/10/12/sandra-bullock-sick-societys-rules-message-little-girls/">Sandra Bullock Sick of Society's Rules, Has Message For Little Girls - FOXNews.com</a><br /><br />Posted using <a href="http://sharethis.com/">ShareThis</a>Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-5260296731264706182009-09-19T10:05:00.000-07:002009-09-19T10:53:56.077-07:00Running<div><br /><br /><div>Last Saturday several Belles, their moms, Coach Rosie and I decided to run the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Aflac</span></span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">IronGirl</span></span> 5K. We have all been training for the last couple of months. In all honesty, due to some <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">busyness</span> (laziness) on my part and a small injury, I hadn't trained to the point that I had actually ran the whole 3.1 miles before. I was nervous.<br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>I arrived at the park and joined up with the ladies from <a href="http://www.victorygetfitclub.com/">Victory Get Fit Club</a>. The trainers were all buzzing with excitement and the veteran runners were chatting and milling about. I alternated pacing, faking a confident smile to my cheerleaders and standing in line yet again for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">porta</span> potties.</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGydq762xCCpJT4yETuma4bVAfGqsZVl_2uhw1ovp6l8x54cCqmm6TTWcubnH1FCQhNL7_40_h69_h5hyDCVlg7HcXvwWh0jND4KoHXCxvK8aQNf0miAnpCpiLk-m_sQt9lKjaA/s1600-h/IMG00039.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383237406117623906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGydq762xCCpJT4yETuma4bVAfGqsZVl_2uhw1ovp6l8x54cCqmm6TTWcubnH1FCQhNL7_40_h69_h5hyDCVlg7HcXvwWh0jND4KoHXCxvK8aQNf0miAnpCpiLk-m_sQt9lKjaA/s200/IMG00039.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I lined up with Coach Rosie. We conservatively chose the 12 minute mile line up station. Inwardly I wanted to run the whole 5K. I barely slept the night before and spent the time praying and praising God. I decided to just run my race, not worry about anyone around me and not try to keep up with anyone.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The race started and put in my headphones. Soon I was picking my way around walkers and slower runners. I kept my pace slow and controlled my breathing. I eventually came alongside Coach Rosie and ran along with her, still not making any predictions about my endurance. We passed the 1 mile mark - I felt good. Grabbed a cup of water and kept going. </div><br /><div></div><div> </div><div>At this point I thought, wow I just ran that first mile in under 10 minutes and I feel pretty good. About this point I came alongside a teenage friend of mine. She was on my dance team several years prior. She was beginning to struggle and wanted to stop and walk. I grabbed her arm and brought her along with us. At the 1.5 mile point, Coach Rosie says, "I think we are going to be able to do this." I finally allow myself to commit to it too. I can run this thing!</div><br /><br /><div></div><div>While shifting my attention to my little friend and encouraging her to push past her wall, I felt renewed strength. We continued the run to the 2 mile mark and Rose and I again remarked, "we're doing it!" Not only was I going to run the whole 5K, I was going to finish with my friend Rose and my young dancer.</div><br /><div></div><div>The race route was littered with husbands, sons and fathers holding signs and encouraging their racing women. The atmosphere was so empowering and encouraging. There was no contest, it was all about finishing and helping the women around you to finish. </div><br /><div></div><div>We began to hear the music from the finish line. We quickened our pace. We were full stride now, no longer jogging, but running. We were doing it! It felt so good. I crossed the finish line and fought tears. I was so proud of myself. I cannot recall the last time I felt truly proud of myself. I was also proud of everyone else who finished their race too.</div><br /><div></div><div>So, I have been bitten by the running bug. Coach Rosie and I plan to run a race every other month or so. I cannot pass up the high that comes from crossing the finish line. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfQwjaHPPMi46LRYwlrlSn9sTFbysCGenfzOUw8tLRCRR_kWT6BV38ZtDzJHqnkaiD8Dh6HC22bkBX1VtrQE0OUMv0LA_73vSbIguGbTJFINrpS7B8YhJDpvWHc1vkvKEW5kY2A/s1600-h/IMG00040.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383238011615248770" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfQwjaHPPMi46LRYwlrlSn9sTFbysCGenfzOUw8tLRCRR_kWT6BV38ZtDzJHqnkaiD8Dh6HC22bkBX1VtrQE0OUMv0LA_73vSbIguGbTJFINrpS7B8YhJDpvWHc1vkvKEW5kY2A/s200/IMG00040.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><div>Next year the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">IronGirl</span> is mandatory for all of our junior cheerleaders - they need to feel the high too!</div></div></div>Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-68173905469787408982009-09-02T21:36:00.000-07:002009-09-02T22:01:12.408-07:00Cheer Camp 2009<div>2009 Belles summer cheer camp was a smashing success!! I have never had so much fun with my staff and with my cheerleaders. It is with relief I state this, if you read last years post about camp you know already that it wasn't a grand time. <a href="http://kindrabeauprey.blogspot.com/2008/08/cheerleading-camp.html">http://kindrabeauprey.blogspot.com/2008/08/cheerleading-camp.html</a><br /><div><br /><div><div><div>We learned from that and planned a whole new game this year. I am so glad we were humble enough to admit defeat and try another road. Coach Rose and I had a heart to heart, made a game plan for this year and we asked for favors from people who support our program.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377100898439545762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOdsmfjugr__vgHxunmgsye0oyL8id4UGzpCFQZCr8USbL4Ly8-6NRj-9RsD0Zm-tK4rJfJXOI8Ad3rHTknkPbjFExjxXNRImJFmADTLRznrxenfKA6A86VXPqxcVr7W2Ygao3A/s400/155.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>We called in the big guns from the south, NV Elite - University Place <a href="http://www.naturalvenom.com/">http://www.naturalvenom.com/</a>. Coach Liz, Coach <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Christoff</span> and Coach Branden were just the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">antidote</span> to our cheer camp <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">aversion</span>! We love these guys! They challenged us, they didn't take themselves seriously and they weren't condescending. Thank you! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">MWAH</span>!<br /></div><div>One of our cheer moms took time off work to be mommy, caterer, cheerleader and guardian angel to us for three days. I know she was exhausted, but she never mentioned it. I know she drove 800 miles that weekend, but she acted like it was part of her mission in life. I know we irritated her, but she never stopped smiling. The girls made up a cheer just for her - it brought some tears, gotta love that. </div><div><br />MISS <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">JAC</span> - our hero! </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyJB7Fv07-rtYGl4n1_2BSHD7zq6H96ke-pb9BCkoR_VkCDQLqrZNiNrV0P61-sFGrRBqqk9E_jsFQuXpt82ZZeAfOk90EWNZfI90m_nU0vLb7kgydZK1Ae9LMjDDQPa8ReIclg/s1600-h/116.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377098640321546050" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyJB7Fv07-rtYGl4n1_2BSHD7zq6H96ke-pb9BCkoR_VkCDQLqrZNiNrV0P61-sFGrRBqqk9E_jsFQuXpt82ZZeAfOk90EWNZfI90m_nU0vLb7kgydZK1Ae9LMjDDQPa8ReIclg/s320/116.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377098211656491922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2blduq8mcuR4gx42U_t__j6yh0RR6dGqYkoabSQ17T8uEph9O9REDoXD4G1cd0P0B2e7w9g3lPO7h_p_BJl5tpjktIGq2nELHbF5xnQ1HwgiKSlYXLcRjneleR2DxlTIjljNjw/s320/113.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>We chose to have a private camp this year. That means it is just our team versus the 200 or so other teams we usually attend camp with. The girls learn so much from the older cheerleaders at camp. We didn't want to eliminate that time. So, we called on another team to ambush the girls with a surprise visit and challenge project. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Renton</span> High School cheerleaders are our girls! The project runway team challenge was hilarious too! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShMfNL0KfVGg1QAwKvcVWJTwheVt8YOkiP0Cv-JNWuC3W5Skau795w_EWjkOV7zEey8YpM3kTARrrdK9XjZ8cOt4kowwCNbdCGvVGFJsD_CnMHrUd2SH2c3C_OCSGFLKT8us1-g/s1600-h/102.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377100442105026562" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShMfNL0KfVGg1QAwKvcVWJTwheVt8YOkiP0Cv-JNWuC3W5Skau795w_EWjkOV7zEey8YpM3kTARrrdK9XjZ8cOt4kowwCNbdCGvVGFJsD_CnMHrUd2SH2c3C_OCSGFLKT8us1-g/s320/102.JPG" border="0" /></a></div></div><br /><br /><div></div><div>I chose the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">glamorous</span> tour for a camp theme. It was entirely based on a quote I read from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Beyonce</span> in Glamour Magazine. Basically she said that true glamour is when a woman is confident, aware of her strengths and weaknesses and skilled in showing off her strengths. We want to carry that whole idea into this season - we know what we can do, we are going to be confident every time we hit the floor. This year will be different, GLAMOROUS baby!<br /></div><div>At the end of the camp, I left energized for the rest of the season. We finally have the right mix of girls, with the right attitudes to make all of the hard work worth it! </div><div></div></div></div></div>Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-13993067833650737272009-09-01T22:07:00.000-07:002009-09-01T22:16:49.135-07:00First day of...The 1st of September. The end of summer and the beginning of so many things. Tomorrow my oldest son will start High School! I cannot hardly believe this day is here. I am so grateful for the man that he is and for the faith and integrity he has and maybe for all that he has taught me over the last 14 years. It has been a long road, he was a WILD little boy, which makes me treasure him even more.<br /><br />September is also the start of competition season for Liberty Belles. Coach Rosie and I finished up making a practice video this evening after working until 1:00am the night before. This is the longest and most difficult routine we have put together. The music is the cleanest we have ever done and the stunting more aggressive.<br /><br />This is the season of new beginnings, new adventures and new expectations. I believe that my son is going to turn a corner in school this year. I believe that my cheerleaders are going to make a sharp right turn this year and also increase exponentially in their skill level, commitment, physical strength and team work.<br /><br />This is the time for something new - I can't wait!Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-35366587160913329272009-06-23T21:53:00.000-07:002009-06-23T22:33:42.566-07:00Tae Kwon Do - The Black BeltsIt was with great excitement that my boys and I entered Kim's Tae Kwon Do this evening. We recently graduated from the beginner class and tonight would be our first "real" class. I must admit that Monday night I chose to observe the first few minutes of the adult class and then leave overcome with intimidation without joining in.<br /><br />My first mistake was asking another mom-type if it was much different than the beginner class. The look on her face and her resulting instruction for the free form sparing, "maintain eye contact at all times, never back up, and if <em>THEY HIT YOU</em> it is their fault not yours." Um, hit me? Really? I thought it was all non-contact. So, I snuck out and went home to chores and bills.<br /><br />Tuesday - I was determined not to be intimidated (that is not in my regular nature anyway). Traffic was light, I swung by home to pick up the boys, suited up in my incredibly unflattering white uniform and arrived to watch my two youngest in their children's class. It was enjoyable and my kids performed well.<br /><br />As the children's class was ending my oldest son and I exchanged nervous glances. The adult class followed the children's class. Finally he said, "I guess we're up." I said, "Yep, you nervous?" Him: "Oh yeah." Master Henkel the kind, no-nonsense instructor required us to line up in the class by rank - we get the back row- woo hoo! <br /><br />After a ridiculously fast warm-up session which feels more like whiplash and softshoe, Master Henkel began shouting sounds which replaced the beginner class' commands: front kick, low block, etc. The rest of the class understood these words because evidently learning Korean is part of the training process (shoot, should have read that handbook we got the first night). My son and I couldn't help but laugh as the rest of the class blocked and kicked and pivoted on command "Shi bah dum di sah" (or whatever) and then we face the back. "Kah bum da bum di doy" (or whatever) and everyone is performing reverse kicks I have never seen before. Okie dokie...<br /><br />We kept up but then Master Henkel assigned us to the top two black belts in the class for the rest of the night. Bless these two young people. They were patient and gracious, but I imagine that teaching a newbie, white belt wearing, green horn ranked right up there with fighting a sweaty sumo wrestler in the TKD scheme of things. My partner and I practiced kicks, her foot precisely tapping my hand (the target) every time with a powerful, rapid, fluid motion. Me flailing about, trying not to fall down while trying to make my body obey the commands I was hearing:<br /><ol><li>Step forward on your right foot</li><li>Turn your left foot backward and step down - is it supposed to do that?</li><li>Pick up your right foot and kick out quickly while pulling your toes backward and extending the ball of your foot - does that require acupuncture?</li><li>Take your bottom lip and pull it up over your face while shouting Kiya</li></ol><p>OK so that last part is an exaggeration, but only slightly.</p>Next up was the part I dreaded and so did every black belt in the room who might be paired with me. Free form sparing...<br />The Black Belts are no joke - they punch and kick and jump and turn so quickly and it looks like fun, but nobody wants to be the one in the class that holds everything up, right? <br /><br />They perform kicks and blocks and punches gracefully dancing around the room. I bob and weave and kick and throw in a few cheerleader jumps... I was a wild woman. As I danced near my son awaiting his turn he says, "Go mom!" God bless him, we felt each other's fear and pain. I accidentally kicked a blue belt dude in the chest. Another pair of sparing partners shoved me as I got too close to their group. I got schooled by a kid who cannot be more than 6. <br /><br />BUT I DID IT. My son and I left proud, a little sore, VERY tired and closer for having endured the black belts. To their dismay, I will return to work out with them again. To learn from them regardless of their irritance at my interloping. <br /><br />Thank you Master Henkel for your encouragement and patience!Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-7765763617225465582009-02-01T00:12:00.000-08:002009-02-01T00:43:31.360-08:00Wake-up callIt was a hint that things on my plate are starting to overflow onto the table...<br /><br />Early in the morning, I rushed out to my car, with enough time to allow it to warm-up and defrost while I apply my make-up in the visor mirror. I was looking forward to my day as I had spent the previous day in bed ill (been years since I have been ill). I was leaving early, ready to attack my day. I inserted my keys into the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">inigtion</span>, turned on the defrost and then began applying my make-up.<br /><br />A few moments later my windshield was clear and my face ready for the office. I spent the next 10 minutes looking for my car keys - in my purse, around my lap, the scary place between the seats, even back inside to check the kitchen counter. I returned to my car, which was still running, to discover - YOU GUESSED IT - that my keys were right where I put them, in the ignition.<br /><br />Embarrassed, I looked around to be sure that none of my neighbors were outside. As if they could know what I as doing while my car was running. <br /><br />So, I have too many thoughts going through my brain right now. Whatever, I will deal with that as soon as I can...later.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-39297078256783133682009-01-06T18:38:00.000-08:002009-01-06T18:48:39.111-08:00There was a glimmerSaturday was a grueling practice. One of our squads was needing a little TLC from coaching staff. We started with an hour of extra tumbling practice, followed by a two hour non-stop practice session that involved repeatedly performing the same routine over and over. There were tears and the cheerleaders were getting frustrated too. [ha!]<br /><br />Then, during the last 30 minutes of practice, I saw it. There was a glimmer of fight that passed over one of the girl's faces. She was angry - I loved it. Am I crazy? No! It was the first piece of passion I have seen from this group of girls. I thought, "come on baby, use that energy." She did, she wiped away tears and fought harder to get it right. Her squad picked up on it - a huge jump in their technique followed.<br /><br />We praised them, they gave a little more. The couple of parents in the room cheered - they brightened and gave some more. At the end of that practice, they had improved by 80%, at least. <br /><br />The potential I saw on Saturday energized me to the core. It caused me to prance into the office on Monday with an extra spring in my step. <br /><br />"Come on my baby girls - I can't wait to see you this Saturday. I can't wait for your parents to see you on the 17<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> at the competition. Use that frustration (it is just passion bottled up) to make you better. Show me how good you really are. Now is the time to let it out - don't be afraid, I BEE-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">lieve</span> in you. Don't forget."Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-49179328712762422662009-01-06T18:22:00.000-08:002009-01-06T18:38:26.974-08:00When I am oldI have decided that my relationships are too important to allow pride issues to interfere with them. For example, we are blessed people but we live in an average home. It was built in the late eighties and still has its original flooring, kitchen and baths. The original owner didn't opt for quality when selecting the finishes either. We have three boys that live with us - you get the picture, right? It could stand to be updated and in some cases overhauled. This year instead of worrying about our old carpet or plastic-wood trim, I am going to enjoy my friends and serve them as guests in my home. [OK, so if you know me you know that I don't wait on guests, you are only a guest for about 10 minutes and then you should just kick off your shoes and open up the fridge yourself!]<br /><br />So my friends, I will be sending many dinner party invites this year. Please don't look at the soiled carpets, the smudged walls, the knife marks in the linoleum [yes they are knife marks - don't ask] or ask what the funny smell is in the upstairs bathroom [no amount of bleach or scrubbing will make it go away]. Come in, kick off your shoes, grab a Diet Pepsi from the fridge, eat some of my semi-homemade hoover-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">doovers</span>, be prepared to compete in a card game or share some funny stories. <br /><br />Likewise do the same - don't hold back. You aren't too busy. Invite, attend, we all have some wisdom, acceptance, love or humor to share. God didn't place us on this earth to be islands right?Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-81713322565551131532009-01-01T09:31:00.000-08:002009-01-01T09:34:11.065-08:00Persevere in the New YearI am posting a daily email I receive from Summit Christian Center (Rick Godwin's church). Too great not to share. You can sign up to receive these too by visiting: <a href="http://www.summitsa.com/">www.summitsa.com</a>.<br /><br />“We will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9 NIVThis year – persevere (1)Perseverance means: (1) Succeeding because you’re determined to, not because you’re entitled to. Achievers don’t sit back and wait for success because they think the world “owes them.” No, if you’re wise you’ll ask God for direction, stand firm on the Word He has given you, go forward and refuse to quit. You must adopt the attitude of the man who said, “We are determined to win. We’ll fight them until hell freezes over, and if we have to, we’ll fight them on ice.” Recalling the trials he’d faced, Paul said: “I started, and I’m going to finish. I’ve worked much harder, been jailed more often, beaten up more times than I can count, and at death’s door…And that’s not the half of it” (2Co 11:23-28 TM). One word describes Paul – relentless.<br /><br />(2) Recognizing that life is not one long race, but many short ones in succession. Each task has its own challenges and each day its own events. You have to get out of bed the next morning and run again, but it’s never exactly the same race. To be successful you must keep plugging away. It’s said that Columbus faced incredible difficulties while sailing west in search of a passage to Asia. He encountered storms, experienced hunger, deprivation and extreme discouragement. The crews of his three ships were near mutiny. But his account of the journey says the same thing over and over: “Today, we sailed on.” And his perseverance paid off. He didn’t discover a fast route to the spice-rich Indies; instead he found a new continent. The scriptural key to success is – running the race each day (See Heb 12:1-2).<br /><br />So, this year – persevere.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-25762860055558134002008-12-22T07:08:00.001-08:002008-12-22T07:24:51.565-08:00These snowy daysSeattle has been blessed with a record snowfall over the last several days. This is a heavenly gift for me. It reminds me of home. <br /><br />I awoke this morning to find my two youngest boys sleeping on the living room floor, dart guns and light sabers littered around them. I assume they were looking to sleep near the Christmas tree. As I adjusted their blankets and added an additional layer to keep them toasty (and sleeping), I stepped on an action figure and tried to keep a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">wimper</span> from escaping my lips. I nearly fell onto one of the boys and instead performed some accidental acrobatics worthy of Cirque.<br /><br />I gingerly pulled myself to a standing position and smiled gratefully. I love raising boys. There will come a day when I will never have to pick up an action figure, toy gun or stinky tennis shoe. I will miss the hubbub and chaos of these days. I have faith that my boys will grow into amazing men - conquerors, mighty <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">heroes</span> of this day, faithful husbands and fathers. <br /><br />Thank you Father for these days.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-6185243471567806262008-12-21T07:11:00.000-08:002008-12-21T07:17:17.026-08:00Do you Bee-lieve?This is the text that was included inside a bumble bee back-pack charm I made for my cheerleaders and girls in my Bible study group:<br /><br />According to the law of aerodynamics a bumble bee cannot fly. Its body is too heavy in proportion to its wings. The bumble bee does not know that it is not supposed to be able to fly, and so it goes ahead and flies anyway.<br /><br />You are capable of AMAZING things because you were created for greatness. Do not listen when people say it cannot be done. You are courageous, beautiful and powerful!<br />Psalm 139:14, Romans 8:37, Ephesians 2:10<br /><br />I am posting it here because I know there are many of us grown women who need to hear it too.<br /><br />Have a very Merry Christmas. May you enjoy the abundance of God's peace and grace as you spend time with friends and family this season.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-51459766407876823702008-09-29T11:06:00.000-07:002008-09-29T11:28:49.861-07:00JohnI am currently working my way through the book of John in the Bible. In the past, I have stayed away from this book because it was confusing to me, but I must be in a different place personally because I am so encouraged by it lately.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Anyway</span>, I was at my favorite Starbucks this morning reading and came across the story in chapter 9 where Jesus encounters a man who was born blind. In the process of healing him, Jesus spits into the dirt on the ground and makes some mud (um, odd to anyone else?). He takes this mud and rubs in onto the man's eyes. Then, he instructs the man to go wash in a pool. The man returns home to his family able to see for the first time in his life. A miracle, awesome right?<br /><br />However, as you read on you find that the Pharisees badgered this once-blind man regarding his relationship with Jesus and his "sins" before he was healed. Eventually this leads to the Pharisees throwing him out of the city. Now, here is the really cool part. In verse 35 the Bible says that Jesus heard of this and came back to find him. JESUS CAME TO FIND HIM after hearing of his calamity. I remember the spit-mud on the eyes part of this Bible story from memory, many of us probably do. I don't ever recall reading the latter section of the story. Jesus heard he was struggling then came personally and affirmed his faith (verse 38).<br /><br />This week ends a season of calamity for my family. I am so grateful for being delivered out of it. However, I can recount throughout this season Jesus affirming me that He was right by my side. "I am here, you are not alone, do not fear..." Just like this blind man, Jesus didn't ignore my struggle, he just affirmed my faith. He is so faithful. <br /><br />Be encouraged and blessed!Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-35768662338393034412008-09-25T07:29:00.000-07:002008-12-22T07:29:49.049-08:00in the middle of it allI was just doing some Bible reading this morning and came across John 6, the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. We have all read this before but this morning a couple of pieces just jumped out at me (which seems to be how God speaks to me lately, or the way I am willing to listen).<br /><br />All of these people are assembled to hear Jesus speak or to receive miraculous healing. Realizing the physical needs of this multitude, Jesus asks one of his disciples where they can buy bread to feed them all. So here are these disciples, not entirely yet sure who Jesus is, young, not wealthy faced with feeding 5,000+ people. I have done enough event planning to know that even with a team of caterers, this is no small task. The noise level involved with feeding that large of a group without a PA system, would be daunting alone. Then, verse 6 says, "He asked this only to test him, for He already had in mind what he was going to do."<br /><br />I thought, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hmmm</span>, here I am in my life faced with some large tasks just ahead of me and I bet that God knows already what he is going to do about them." I need to just relax a bit, ease up on my reigns and seek Him a bit more to find out how we are going to handle this. HE ALREADY HAS A PLAN.<br /><br />Then, just after that in verses 16-21 the disciples are in a boat heading to Jesus' next speaking engagement in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Capernaum</span>. :) [I am so funny I know.] There was a strong wind and the waters were rough. They were ROWING (thank you Father for motorized boats) for 3 to 3.5 miles and then they saw Jesus approaching, walking on the water. So just like I would have, they freaked out and were afraid. But then Jesus spoke to them and said, "It is I; don't be afraid.". Verse 21 was the interesting one to me, "Then they were willing to take Him into the boat,". OK, so I assume that before that they were like, "Row faster, he's catching up." Right? But, it was the voice of God that quited them down so they were able to receive Him.<br /><br />Boy, this is me right now, rowing and rowing and rowing just trying to get out of the storm and away from the things that scare me, when I just need to hear the voice of God to understand and receive. Thank you Father for your word, for my church so that I can receive of you and not be in fear.<br /><br />Hopefully this encourages you as it has me this morning. SLOW DOWN AND LISTEN, GOD ALREADY HAS A PLAN. And, stop rowing so quickly... aren't you tired?Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-89644624795954318972008-09-18T10:14:00.001-07:002008-09-18T10:23:55.640-07:00PajamasThis past Saturday our Junior squad spent an evening at my house for a pajama party. It was a great last fun time before the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">riggors</span> of competition season begin. I was so proud of the girls as I watched them interact and mingle. I laughed at their answers during the games we played. I was frightened at times by the volume and ferocity of their interactions. I apologized to my neighbors the next morning. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExJVQQsXp_UUeWB79Gzi_7_lNQwbWjdeCf_fY6A4ox1tTpuG07l7-Mbogy6R1eUmzyXtzwfRGcAIDuRhIZpDSM2r0y6V-dGakRqJs4ri3OJ2Zfq82iPztmQCG_1He5Mq8gdid3w/s1600-h/CIMG1760.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247412916321369074" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExJVQQsXp_UUeWB79Gzi_7_lNQwbWjdeCf_fY6A4ox1tTpuG07l7-Mbogy6R1eUmzyXtzwfRGcAIDuRhIZpDSM2r0y6V-dGakRqJs4ri3OJ2Zfq82iPztmQCG_1He5Mq8gdid3w/s320/CIMG1760.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Growing up with a brother, these girl sessions are sometimes foreign to me. I find that I watch them with the detail of a scientist or wildlife expert watching animals in the wild. "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hmm</span>, wonder what that means? Is that <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">aggressive</span> or friendly behavior? Should I keep hidden or run for my life?"<br /><br /><br /><br />In all seriousness this is a great group of girls and we are going to be fierce competitors this season!Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-57451415104321179692008-08-30T22:51:00.000-07:002008-08-30T23:15:19.356-07:00Fighting for PeaceSchool is about to start. The first day of school can be the biggest <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">stressor</span> for a young person. One of my sons deals with this stress by behaving in outlandish ways. I get it, but I am sure my neighbors don't understand his need to urinate in the backyard (God bless his little self). Now I am not a boy, hence I would probably deal with that kind of stress with chocolate or being a little cranky to those around me. I guess when you have an "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">outty</span>" it becomes your primary means for expressing yourself. <br /><br />I can only guess at what kind of stress my little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">doggie</span> has. Evidently, the overactive squirrels preparing for hibernation are too much for her. She has taken to collecting rocks in a pile underneath my bed. Cute, right? Well, I recently noticed that the decorative rocks displayed in a glass bowl on my dining room table have become additions to her pile. So tell me, how does my hoarding pooch get those rocks? She is up on our dining room table when we are not home! Gag.<br /><br />God has called us to live in peace. Throughout the Bible we read of God's promise to bring us peace. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter. Why, then, am I fighting daily to keep myself in peace? Because I am human and, if I am honest, a bit of a control freak. Thankfully, my loving Father God is patient.<br /><br />Sometimes I think I have things under control. I am a rather capable woman. I can usually walk with more than my share of balls in the air. It is this gift that gets me in trouble. I get over-confident and starting thinking it is ME that is so great. BUT, it is not about me. My life must glorify God, not my ability to handle stress.<br /><br />Ugh, so as a warrior chick (thank you Holly Wagner) I am drawing my sword. Enemy beware! I will fight for peace because God promises it. I am more than a conqueror in the arms of my Father, I can speak to my circumstances and declare victory because I serve an Almighty God. I know that my needs (all of them) are met because the Bible says so.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Hoo</span>-Rah (or however that goes).Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-61546453977330013212008-08-18T16:40:00.000-07:002008-08-18T16:49:25.593-07:00Mini's on FootballLast Saturday our Mini Belles squad (ages 8 and under) manned the sidelines for a King County Jaguars football game. AND THEY KILLED IT! I am so proud of them.<br /><br />It happened to be one of the hottest days of the summer, but we were perky and cute in our uniforms anyway. We have a repertoire of 5 cheers and we cheered for half of the second quarter followed by a halftime performance. I must say, I could never have done that at 4 years old. Not only did we perform the cheers, but we offered a mean rally and even managed to get the crowd to participate with us. It was tons of fun.<br /><br />Go MINIs!!!Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-15606098982859335622008-08-08T13:17:00.001-07:002008-08-08T20:30:36.128-07:00Cheerleading CampWhat was I thinking? This is usually what goes through my head during day 1-3 of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">cheerleading</span> camp. Repeatedly, during sleep or wake, "What was I thinking?" "We could be at home right now sleeping in real beds without bugs, in showers that do not require flip flops, with food that permits digestion and normal excrement from the body." [Father help me not to accidentally hurl myself from this 3rd floor bedroom window.] Thankfully, because God is very wise, the windows are not operable. Thank you Joy for the brownies, they got us through Night 1 and 2.<br /><br /><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMxc0Vkg7wpWRRfGIEh6tZ6ezilSK1pQ10V6LwheEpZgPD6zhRbZa5dA0z79Obb-QN_XqWHPJxAmDlmcVTzavp0grw73O0-1ucn86IkM7x6EEOCBDcACrixjJuWJkUgCwAMBnhQ/s1600-h/CIMG1696.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232251038211177666" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMxc0Vkg7wpWRRfGIEh6tZ6ezilSK1pQ10V6LwheEpZgPD6zhRbZa5dA0z79Obb-QN_XqWHPJxAmDlmcVTzavp0grw73O0-1ucn86IkM7x6EEOCBDcACrixjJuWJkUgCwAMBnhQ/s200/CIMG1696.JPG" border="0" /></a>Day 1. I arrive nice and early. All of our veteran parents know that I like to arrive first, get a lay of the land, pray and prepare myself to greet girls and intelligently answer questions. God bless them for understanding my craziness. I check in and realize that they have placed our girls all together in one hallway on floor 3 and both of the coaches together on floor 2!!! Hello, we are the youngest girls at camp. Do you want me to have to sleep on the floor in the bathroom to be near them at night? A few <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">walkie</span> talkies and a promise to be on the couch in the common area until midnight does the trick. It is hot, some vomit, tears and a mediocre display of cheerleader spirit. Not perfect, but we survive. </div><br /><div></div><div>Day 2. The girls gather in their cute pink t-shirts looking perky and hungry for breakfast. The <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9Q9bY2RioFTbQJkbMMk1YpMfi4_teJ3O3BYc52k9cukmmJBXbqAlqL9Om0c6Yy50wF4A40APbUyUerlU8w8rPX7E7W-X618RQRnH-K4EvEMBfNmxpZYj5Y_2c-8yGLVs9N9m1g/s1600-h/CIMG1709.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232250640904938706" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" height="160" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9Q9bY2RioFTbQJkbMMk1YpMfi4_teJ3O3BYc52k9cukmmJBXbqAlqL9Om0c6Yy50wF4A40APbUyUerlU8w8rPX7E7W-X618RQRnH-K4EvEMBfNmxpZYj5Y_2c-8yGLVs9N9m1g/s200/CIMG1709.JPG" width="219" border="0" /></a>captains accidentally woke the girls 45 minutes earlier than we planned - YIKES! Eight year <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">olds</span> need sleep, as much as possible. This day leads to a near breakdown from our fearless leader - ME! At lunchtime there is an issue with one of our girls. It is heartbreaking, frustrating and I cannot get my heart and head around it. The lunchroom is ridiculously overcrowded, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">stifling</span> hot and the only food lines within reason are for spicy food. I am sitting too close to too many bodies and I start to feel myself want to scream very loud. What is wrong with me? I reluctantly excuse myself to take a quick shower upstairs alone. I cry in the stall. [Father help me. I don't feel capable of this task I was so excited for. I'm not doing it well. I need You to shine through me.] We finish the night with evaluations [Father thank you for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">NCA</span> staff that were assigned to us. We could not have done this without them.] Five of our girls were nominated for All American. What? We are so much younger than the rest of the squads - what an honor! The girls start to show some more cheerleader spirit - you go girls!</div><br /><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWFph8xQcRP7FHBGybBF4GoJYf6ohzKG4lPZHiNJNUbH9xi8w4NDPsHZeH5mt2dn70a0SIGPRHT8QV3pX8CjQ2LYROnEQ6ZzFERd8TEJeDcWLd8yKlucm1Slr23vXckKwGy8YRTQ/s1600-h/CIMG1724.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232249101196417314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWFph8xQcRP7FHBGybBF4GoJYf6ohzKG4lPZHiNJNUbH9xi8w4NDPsHZeH5mt2dn70a0SIGPRHT8QV3pX8CjQ2LYROnEQ6ZzFERd8TEJeDcWLd8yKlucm1Slr23vXckKwGy8YRTQ/s200/CIMG1724.JPG" border="0" /></a>Day 3. We wake the girls a little late. A quick scramble to get ready for Fun Day at camp. We are wearing a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">camo</span> theme. The black face make-up I purchased doesn't dry so we cannot wear the black lines under our eyes - DANG! Our stunting is really coming along! The goal was to get at least 2 single legged stunts, we got 3! The youth squad also has 2 stunts groups that can load to a prep, reload and bring it back up safely. Woo <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Hoo</span>! We got some extra down time today to hang out, watch a movie and relax this afternoon. [thank you Jesus!] Three of the five girls nominated for All American tryout in front of a large group of cheerleaders. Wow, I cannot be more proud of them. It is harder than it looks. [Father, help me to stop sobbing like an idiot.] We performed our We Run This dance during the evening camp talent show and the crowd went WILD! That was so great for our esteem. </div><br /><div>Day 4. We get to go home. Our parents are coming! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2rRL1edYc2vmvu5xaIQ9F3fOJOxik8M7PJyx8YUzSHIopdsS0Z7wUZ_AG3fCVFe4IZZFlxuZs7c3oeLRHnz91pDCgeQDe1iu0zCBpZd0IcvTwArYW0FLbj5M0P09M0g-zKJhoA/s1600-h/CIMG1731.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232252342058291778" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2rRL1edYc2vmvu5xaIQ9F3fOJOxik8M7PJyx8YUzSHIopdsS0Z7wUZ_AG3fCVFe4IZZFlxuZs7c3oeLRHnz91pDCgeQDe1iu0zCBpZd0IcvTwArYW0FLbj5M0P09M0g-zKJhoA/s200/CIMG1731.JPG" border="0" /></a>We need hugs and our mommies - where is mine anyway? We get through final evaluations. The girls do great. We compete for junior top team chant and are competitive. Considering that we are younger than any other team by several years, we kicked butt! We didn't win, but we played to the crowd and that was goal #2 for the camp. We take home a spirit stick, four excellent ribbons and two superior. We SURVIVED! </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232354420258426754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sOAQS0ihXk-z7COqF97nZ-N9lDIqL62oMnxUzUjyxTAmISUyf4IIstqWrh2Mz6FTQO3dse3AcPBTHnkURh1y3mJobxXRoONmfxP0_dSxeEZ26Y9YIDkUUoHHZQz8e4-tyNZ_fg/s400/CIMG1718.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>The things I learned at camp this year:</div><ol><li>Exactly 24 cheerleaders and 2 coaches with backpacks can fit into the elevators in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Haggett</span> Hall.</li><li>Young girls will not claim any undergarments left in bathrooms regardless of the discretion used to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">compel</span> them to do so - even if their names are written on them.</li><li>It takes about eight 24oz bottles of Diet Pepsi over ice to keep 2 coaches alive during 2 full days and 2 half days of camp.</li><li>Little girls can go to the bathroom 10 times each in a four hour period.</li><li>Never underestimate the sweet smile and innocent eyes of two ten year <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">olds</span> in the bathroom at 12:30am.</li><li>Red licorice can heal homesickness in a pinch.</li><li>I am so lucky to have such great kids in our program. </li></ol><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>OK, OK, it wasn't that bad. The physical and emotional exhaustion cannot compare to the examples of spirit and determination I saw in those few days. Some brought me to tears (not pretty ones trickling down my face, but the loud, snotty kind). I am so lucky to have this opportunity, however exhausting. I love these girls and I believe I will reap the rewards as I get to watch them grow up and accomplish AMAZING things in years to come.<br /></div></div></div><div></div></div>Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-19973448154671260202008-08-02T11:24:00.000-07:002008-08-02T11:39:36.631-07:00GivingLast night at about 10:00pm I was exiting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Walmart</span>. Now, I know better than to shop at this particular <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Walmart</span> at this particular hour, but somehow that knowledge slipped my mind. As I exited the store I watched a little boy no older than 8 walk up to a man in front of me and ask for a dollar. The man refused <em>without looking at the boy</em> and kept walking. The little boy was clean and well-kept, not your typical pan-handler.<br /><br />I watched him walk back behind a column to his mother and older brother. I proceeded about 10 more feet and then turned around. I approached the mother and asked her what she needed a dollar for. Her answer did not satisfy my need to know that my cash wouldn't support a drug habit. The story involved a need for $30 to help their family return to their home in West Virginia. How could $30 get them that far? It certainly did not add up. Further questioning increased my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">suspicions</span>.<br /><br />I could not fathom utilizing my children in this manner, regardless of my circumstances. I wanted to be angry with the mother. I wanted to shake her and demand that she shield her children from this matter. Protect them! Then, I decided, at that moment, that I wanted the boys to remember not the shame of asking strangers for money, but that there are good people in the world.<br /><br />I gathered all of the cash I had in my wallet, which wasn't much, and offered it to the little brother. His face lit up and he jumped up slightly! That made the situation worse from where I stood. I smiled brightly to the boys, looked each one in the face hoping to impart their value in taking the time to acknowledge them. The mother didn't thank me. <br /><br />I walked to my car wondering if I should have done more. Could I have filled their gas tank? Did they have a car? Should I have re-entered the store and bought some food? Should I have questioned the mother further? I probably didn't do enough. However, for a moment I know those little boys felt like valuable little people. I prayed for that family as I drove home. "Father protect those boys, bring others to them to help raise them up in the way they should go. Help them to realize their potential and value to this world. Father, bless me abundantly so that in the future I can make a bigger difference in this situation."Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-66323139478344534582008-08-01T16:39:00.000-07:002008-08-01T17:18:08.446-07:00Accidental HoboIt was a comical turn of events. My sons regularly travel to Portland on a train to visit family. Somehow I have never known that a train station <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">exists</span> closer to my home than Seattle. I was excited to try out this new station and save the drive to downtown. Very early this morning we headed to the train station for their departure. I had packed each of my kids a snack sack with individual favorites for each child. Each also had a selection of activities to keep him busy for 3 hour plus ride.<br /><br />We greeted the car attendant at the station and she allowed me to board the train briefly to get the boys settled into their seats. She was not exaggerating when she said brief! I had just helped the boys stow their luggage when I felt the train lurch forward. I rushed to the car entrance to see instant panic flash across the attendant's face as she realized that I was still on board - really it was less than 3 minutes! She grabbed my arm as I attempted to jump from the moving train - barely moving!<br /><br />Minor chaos ensued, which involved my kids rushing to find me and being forced to remain seated, me sequestered in a nearby car and trying to remain civil as the conductor was summoned to speak with me and the car attendant trying to find a solution that didn't involve her receiving blame. I was then informed that I was stuck on the train until the next stop - TACOMA! "But," she smiled "we won't charge you for that leg." You bet your sweet smile you won't. [help me Father not to react poorly] I am a Hobo - illegally on a train.<br /><br />The conductor chastised me, yes <em>chastised ME</em>, that unaccompanied minors were not allowed to board at the last station. Like I was trying to be sneaky or something - I just didn't want to drive into Seattle. Who knew this train station rule? Was it posted? Did the website address it? Maybe, somewhere, but why was I allowed to purchase the tickets?<br /><br />So, I have the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">new found</span> pleasure of taking an early morning trip to Tacoma. Woo <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Hoo</span>! Did I mention that I was in my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">jammies</span>? I doubt I locked my car which is now miles behind us at the station. [another quick prayer] I return to my children who are faking calm. I call and wake my husband and plead with him to come and get me in Tacoma at the train station. I try to keep my mind fixed on the things above - "Help me Jesus not to hit, yell or cuss." So my saintly, sleepy, unshaven and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">un</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">coffee'd</span> husband sets off to rescue me - mind you this was rush hour by now.<br /><br />The car attendant, bless this poor woman, calls ahead to the next station to fix the unaccompanied minor issue and asks the next station attendant to prepare the necessary paperwork for me to sign upon my arrival. At this same time, a supervisor somewhere gets wind of this whole incident and decides that me and my kids - such <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">villains</span> - should depart the train in Tacoma and find "alternate transportation" to Portland. WHAT!? We prepare to depart. One of my boys is now crying [help me Father].<br /><br />The train stops, we exit the train, the car attendant (remember her - the reason why I am stuck on the train in the first place?) calls her boss on her personal cell phone and gets the whole <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">debacle</span> cleared up in a manner of minutes - <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">villains</span> to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">VIP's</span>! [Thank you Father!]<br /><br />Morning rush hour, waiting in a train station with the other Hobo's (translate: a handful of business-types, a transvestite, a man with a very large cart and a loud belching issue, and a young woman with an apple in each hand) - what an adventure! I will make the 40 minute drive downtown in the future and hope my credentials are not posted on some train station website as a possible Hobo.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-84600535654562233612008-07-24T21:48:00.000-07:002008-07-24T22:09:13.980-07:00TransitionTransition. Change. Inevitable. <br /><br />Recently our Belles Junior and Youth squads voted on new captains for the 08-09 season. We have been served so well by our original captains, Lisa and Kali, since our inception THREE YEARS ago. We felt it was time for other Belles to have a chance at captain and to allow Kali and Lisa a break from the added responsibility. They voted... so wisely. We have four new captains to take over the reigns: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mckenna</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Alesha</span>, Catherine and Marissa. I know these four young ladies will serve their squads well and I look forward to this season working with them. The best part about this transition, because it would be <em>easier</em> for the coaches if the existing captains remained, was the response of Kali and Lisa. They were given the task of notifying the new captains of their positions. They were so proud to do this. I was so proud of them. We have such great girls on our squad.<br /><br />My husband is currently in a transitional phase professionally. It is requiring that we reinvent our relationship and our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">homelife</span>. It isn't comfortable or easy. Part of growing together. All for the better, but still change.<br /><br />Then, just last night one of my very best friends got engaged! I am so happy for her and so excited for her future with her new husband. I know it is God's will for them. Hooray! However, as happens when every woman marries, her friendships with her female friends will experience transition.<br /><br />I make myself absorb changes of all kinds. It isn't always comfortable. I walked around last evening for a little too long while it was a little too dark. I donned my sneakers and stepped off my front porch determined to convince God that these changes, er <em>transitions</em> were not necessary right now. Just like wishing for summer to linger and autumn to delay, this was futile!<br /><br />As I walked, prayed and listened I felt the comfort and peace of God. The transitions in my life are necessary just as the flow of water is necessary to keep bodies of water from becoming swamps. How self-centered I am sometimes seeing everything from my me-glasses. My Father God reminded me that I am bigger than that. <br /><br />I woke this morning a little sore - I must have been walking <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">aggressively</span>! I am so thankful for the transitions in my life. They are part of the process that keeps me from being stagnant and stinky.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-63328489104672545362008-06-21T08:54:00.000-07:002008-11-13T17:55:24.244-08:00Liberty Classic Spring 2008<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiGw-P9rzv566okRdebh6Z5FWULuS2ab4ppd5OS-khNTBtF1mU31_jHg0A8D6qDO7pcrVnVrO-NszCmSIw1lmJT6E1ZwEL-X9e3VcA1LjIfEtZLVon15PolQpxWhN-l7jF0LBrEg/s1600-h/Cheerleading+446.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226816957342709218" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiGw-P9rzv566okRdebh6Z5FWULuS2ab4ppd5OS-khNTBtF1mU31_jHg0A8D6qDO7pcrVnVrO-NszCmSIw1lmJT6E1ZwEL-X9e3VcA1LjIfEtZLVon15PolQpxWhN-l7jF0LBrEg/s320/Cheerleading+446.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcZw7h7In6G7lFaMKOIrK5AdPF3P3EF6puVFjEN3v0UcMwwb259kj2bQ6eLK3uMRLJjUbBRY54WLwHTYKXAhwzX7_7lCz1jmsIzTrzv-gjOAMSUULtEVk7sNcIPgtN9yuKigetA/s1600-h/Cheerleading+456.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div>Saturday, June 14<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> was our Spring Liberty Classic. We had all of our current classes come together to compete at a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">cheerleading</span> competition. It was a great day!<br /><br />Our new Belles squads performed for the first time before several hundred spectators. Our Angels (the special needs program we began in Maple Valley) performed for the first time together too. I WAS SO PROUD of the efforts each young lady made.<br /><br />One little girl (who is only 4) was tearful just before her performance. With encouragement from mom and coach she braved the performance floor. Through her tears she began her dance and by the end was smiling and confident. I know each time she performs she will learn to overcome the anxiety and embrace courage. Each time will be easier.<br /><br />My hope is that each of the girls who performed on Saturday will recall that process, overcoming anxiety and embracing courage, throughout their lives. That is the crux of my business!<br /><br />"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. " Philippians 4:13 (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">NKJV</span>)<br /><br />Pictures coming soon...</div></div>Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22628131.post-65324712473788111042008-06-09T07:46:00.000-07:002008-06-09T08:12:03.605-07:00In seasonMark 11:12-14<br />Now the next day, when they had come out from Bethany, He was hungry. And seeing from afar a fig tree having leaves, He went to see if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. In response Jesus said to it, “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” And His disciples heard it.<br /><br />These scriptures are cautionary in the use of our words. Be careful what you say because words are powerful as demonstrated by Jesus cursing this tree. <br /><br />My pastor used this scripture on Sunday as he was teaching on faith. As he was teaching I noticed a piece of the scripture that I have never "seen" before. "For it was not the season for figs" Jesus walked over to the tree EXPECTING to receive fruit to eat even though figs were not in season at that time.<br /><br />Right now the season of our economy is such that one should expect lack and shortage - high gas and grocery prices, a sluggish real estate market and fear running rampant in consumers. However, being formed in the image of Christ, we should have the same expectation - fruit to be available to us even when the "season" isn't right. <br /><br />We should expect to have more than enough because GOD is our source, our businesses should be growing and thriving, our pantries should be stocked, our investment accounts should be holding. We can expect it just as Jesus did.Kindra Beaupreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07632085190594379396noreply@blogger.com1