Aug. 2009 (166lbs)
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August 2010 (119lbs)
Thursday, August 26, 2010
One Year
Its amazing what you can do in one year when you put your heart and soul into it. I was dedicated, committed and accountable...TO MYSELF. Let this be a message to every woman that feels stuck. YOU are in CONTROL of how you look and feel...
Aug. 2009 (166lbs)
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August 2010 (119lbs)
Aug. 2009 (166lbs)
August 2010 (119lbs)
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Overwhelmed
I think I'll end up getting back to a strict schedule before Sept. 1; I'm losing my mind. I can't believe how much of my life I just set aside while I trained for the competition. Now I feel like everything is just crashing down and I have so much to think about and do all.the.time.
During the last few weeks of competition prep, I didn't think about the upcoming school year, I didn't really think about anything that was scheduled to happen after Aug. 14th. I couldn't let myself. So now, life goes on and I have a million and three things that need to get done and I can't push aside a moment longer. I feel VERY overwhelmed and almost depressed about it all. I just feel like there is so much to do and it doesn't help that I'm not as organized as I had been in the previous weeks.
I'm sure that this weekend, I'll get back to planning and begin a routine/schedule ASAP. Whew! Who knew that life would feel like this following the big day...
During the last few weeks of competition prep, I didn't think about the upcoming school year, I didn't really think about anything that was scheduled to happen after Aug. 14th. I couldn't let myself. So now, life goes on and I have a million and three things that need to get done and I can't push aside a moment longer. I feel VERY overwhelmed and almost depressed about it all. I just feel like there is so much to do and it doesn't help that I'm not as organized as I had been in the previous weeks.
I'm sure that this weekend, I'll get back to planning and begin a routine/schedule ASAP. Whew! Who knew that life would feel like this following the big day...
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Back to Reality
After putting life on somewhat of a "hold" while I prepared for the show, I can't say that I'm too surprised that life after the show has been nothing short of chaos. Work, family, homelife, etc has just been completely unorganized these last 10 days.
I haven't worked out or tracked what I eat since the competition, I also haven't planned for meals or really thought much about a daily schedule/routine. We're in the last few days of summer and I'm just trying to decompress before the school year begins. I've already put back on 4lbs, but my clothing is still very very big on me and I'm not seeing any changes in my appearance. I believe that the 4lbs is water. I'd like to put on a few more lbs for my maintenance weight.
My daughter starts school next week and both my husband and I are planning on getting on track on September 1st. Back to working out, meal planning, HIIT training and carb cycling (for Marty, not me) We're going to hit it hard!
My goal for the next 3 months is to move heavy weights! I'm going to really focus on putting on muscle mass. During the 3 months prior to my competition, I was able to put on 2 lbs of muscle even while leaning out, so I'm excited to see how much muscle I can do without trying to lose weight at the same time.
I'll continue to post my workouts and nutrition plans...Blythe will continue to monitor my nutrition online and we'll really focus on maintaining weight and adding muscle mass.
I haven't worked out or tracked what I eat since the competition, I also haven't planned for meals or really thought much about a daily schedule/routine. We're in the last few days of summer and I'm just trying to decompress before the school year begins. I've already put back on 4lbs, but my clothing is still very very big on me and I'm not seeing any changes in my appearance. I believe that the 4lbs is water. I'd like to put on a few more lbs for my maintenance weight.
My daughter starts school next week and both my husband and I are planning on getting on track on September 1st. Back to working out, meal planning, HIIT training and carb cycling (for Marty, not me) We're going to hit it hard!
My goal for the next 3 months is to move heavy weights! I'm going to really focus on putting on muscle mass. During the 3 months prior to my competition, I was able to put on 2 lbs of muscle even while leaning out, so I'm excited to see how much muscle I can do without trying to lose weight at the same time.
I'll continue to post my workouts and nutrition plans...Blythe will continue to monitor my nutrition online and we'll really focus on maintaining weight and adding muscle mass.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
A Break
I've decided that this week I'm not going to care about what I eat or even think about working out. I'm just going to enjoy all those sinful things that I have not been able to indulge in the last several months...
Well, this morning, I was sick as a dog! My tummy was UPSET. I guess the Mint Mocha Iced Coffee was just a bit too sweet first thing thing this morning. Its momentary pleasure for a price. These last few days have been anything but "clean". Chik-fil-a, ice cream, popcorn, chips and salsa, root beer, margaritas, etc... It hasn't been pretty. I think the plan is to totally gross myself out so that I'll go running back into clean eating and exercising like a fool!
I believe that the point of this break is to just spend a few days not thinking about it all. I've spent the last several months measuring, timing, counting, cycling... its been a lot and its been very intense! Obviously, these first few days off training are a little rough, and I'm stuffing myself full of foods and treats that I wouldn't have dreamt of eating two weeks ago (or rather, I did dream of them, but never allowed myself!) I'm not going to totally go back into eating like this 24/7 and put 50lbs back on, but I do believe its healthy to just take this break for the week.
This weekend, I'll start planning ahead and setting some new goals. For now though...I think I'll make myself a bowl of cookies and cream ice cream :o)
Well, this morning, I was sick as a dog! My tummy was UPSET. I guess the Mint Mocha Iced Coffee was just a bit too sweet first thing thing this morning. Its momentary pleasure for a price. These last few days have been anything but "clean". Chik-fil-a, ice cream, popcorn, chips and salsa, root beer, margaritas, etc... It hasn't been pretty. I think the plan is to totally gross myself out so that I'll go running back into clean eating and exercising like a fool!
I believe that the point of this break is to just spend a few days not thinking about it all. I've spent the last several months measuring, timing, counting, cycling... its been a lot and its been very intense! Obviously, these first few days off training are a little rough, and I'm stuffing myself full of foods and treats that I wouldn't have dreamt of eating two weeks ago (or rather, I did dream of them, but never allowed myself!) I'm not going to totally go back into eating like this 24/7 and put 50lbs back on, but I do believe its healthy to just take this break for the week.
This weekend, I'll start planning ahead and setting some new goals. For now though...I think I'll make myself a bowl of cookies and cream ice cream :o)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Competition Recap
So... no pictures yet, but as soon as I get them I'll post!
My day started at 7am with my final coat of Pro-tan and then getting my hair and makeup done. We had a competitors meeting at 9am; they talked to us about our mandatory poses, our stage walk and the order of events. Pre-judging began at 10:30 My Debut class was the third group to go on stage. There were 18 of us (HUGE CLASS) They had to split us up into two groups on stage to compare us. They didn't split us up by height for this class, us tall girls didn't have a prayer! LOL!
My fitness model class was in the middle, again, it was a larger class, maybe 12 of us. Everyone looked really great! I had a lot of fun with this group!
Novice Tall was my final class, there were 15 girls in this class and everyone looked phenomenal! To qualify for Novice, you just have to have never won first place in the class...so there were women in the class who this was there 4,5,6th show and they had been training for YEARS. One woman I talked to said that she trained for 2 years before getting the guts to compete and then trained for 1 year to get ready for this show. The top five seriously looked amazing and deserved to place!
We took a break at 2 and I went and had tacos, chips and queso with Marty, my SIL and my niece. The three of them came to pre-judging and were such a HUGE support to me! Marty and I picked Marissa up and she came to the 5pm show.
I was back at 4pm to get my tan touched up and my hair and makeup refreshed. 5pm the show started, we each walked out in numeric order to do our stage walk. I was #19 and my song was "Clap Your Hands" by Sia. I felt great. Seeing all my friends in the first row felt amazing! I was seriously moved to tears to see everyone there with their shirts and just shouting and smiling and clapping while I had my 90sec on stage!
After all 97 contestants (yeah my family and friends sat through all that!) They did finals and awards. I didn't place in anything, but after meeting the other contestants and hearing how long they worked and how long they've been at this, the girls that placed did AMAZING! I know that I did great! I felt very confident and I was the best ME. I'm very very happy with the experience.
I never went in this to win first place at the show, that wouldn't have been realistic. I've lost 50lbs, I'm in incredible shape and I'm thrilled with the results. I'm not sure if I'll ever do this again, but I definitely have some new goals for my body! I think we can always improve!
My day started at 7am with my final coat of Pro-tan and then getting my hair and makeup done. We had a competitors meeting at 9am; they talked to us about our mandatory poses, our stage walk and the order of events. Pre-judging began at 10:30 My Debut class was the third group to go on stage. There were 18 of us (HUGE CLASS) They had to split us up into two groups on stage to compare us. They didn't split us up by height for this class, us tall girls didn't have a prayer! LOL!
My fitness model class was in the middle, again, it was a larger class, maybe 12 of us. Everyone looked really great! I had a lot of fun with this group!
Novice Tall was my final class, there were 15 girls in this class and everyone looked phenomenal! To qualify for Novice, you just have to have never won first place in the class...so there were women in the class who this was there 4,5,6th show and they had been training for YEARS. One woman I talked to said that she trained for 2 years before getting the guts to compete and then trained for 1 year to get ready for this show. The top five seriously looked amazing and deserved to place!
We took a break at 2 and I went and had tacos, chips and queso with Marty, my SIL and my niece. The three of them came to pre-judging and were such a HUGE support to me! Marty and I picked Marissa up and she came to the 5pm show.
I was back at 4pm to get my tan touched up and my hair and makeup refreshed. 5pm the show started, we each walked out in numeric order to do our stage walk. I was #19 and my song was "Clap Your Hands" by Sia. I felt great. Seeing all my friends in the first row felt amazing! I was seriously moved to tears to see everyone there with their shirts and just shouting and smiling and clapping while I had my 90sec on stage!
After all 97 contestants (yeah my family and friends sat through all that!) They did finals and awards. I didn't place in anything, but after meeting the other contestants and hearing how long they worked and how long they've been at this, the girls that placed did AMAZING! I know that I did great! I felt very confident and I was the best ME. I'm very very happy with the experience.
I never went in this to win first place at the show, that wouldn't have been realistic. I've lost 50lbs, I'm in incredible shape and I'm thrilled with the results. I'm not sure if I'll ever do this again, but I definitely have some new goals for my body! I think we can always improve!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Special Thanks
Before I go into the show recap, there are several people that I need to thank.Blythe Alberg has been such an amazing trainer, mentor and friend. I have truly enjoyed getting to know her and she has just been so supportive and truly an inspiration. She came out to pre-judging yesterday and helped me out back stage and made sure that I was in the right place at the right time. Also, thanks to her husband, John Puskarich, for weekly check ins with body fat, the pep talks. Both John and Blythe just have the best attitudes and its obvious that they have a passion for helping people reach their absolute best!
Jessica Thomas, my sister-in-law has been a huge support for me this past year! Thanks for always listening, cheering me on, laughing at my funny workout horror stories, giving a shoulder to lean on during my emotional break downs and always being camera ready! Jessica photographed the ENITRE day yesterday from 7am-9pm. WHEW! I can't wait to see the pictures!
Jenifer Martin, my niece is amazing! She did my hair and make-up for the day to make sure that I looked my absolute best! She also started the day with me at 7am and stayed late into the day to see how I did! Jenifer also picked up extra hours at my preschool to keep it running smoothly this week while I was in show prep. I'm sure she's ready to drop!!! I love you, baby girl!
My husband, Marty, I love you. There are no words that can express how thankful I am. Marty has seen it all. He helped keep me on track, supported my crazy workout schedule, understood my insane mood swings and tolerated our lack of variety in meals. I'll say it again; the man is a saint!
To my friends. Wow! You all have been just wonderful! Michelle, Kelly, Morgan and Megan...I'm speechless. The interest you've taken in my endeavor, your love and support---the T SHIRTS! I am so blessed to have such incredible friends!
Chantelle, Aubrey, Kristine, and Kasey; I really appreciate you guys coming out to show your support! It meant the world to me to have you there! Chantelle- I could see your face immediately when I walked out on stage and it just overwhelmed me with love and friendship! Thank you! Kristine, my husband said he could tell you were really into it and enjoyed the show! I hope to be able to support you through your journey! Anything is possible!!!!!
Chantelle, Aubrey, Kristine, and Kasey; I really appreciate you guys coming out to show your support! It meant the world to me to have you there! Chantelle- I could see your face immediately when I walked out on stage and it just overwhelmed me with love and friendship! Thank you! Kristine, my husband said he could tell you were really into it and enjoyed the show! I hope to be able to support you through your journey! Anything is possible!!!!!Chris and Kim, thanks for cheering me on! I could hear you while I was on stage! I'm truly TOUCHED that you guys made it out to see me!
To my brother, Mike, I love you! Being you've always been the athlete, I was so nervous to have you there to see me in this element! I hope I made you proud!
To everyone who reads/follows my blog...I love you! Thanks for your good thoughts, love and support! I hope that I've been an inspiration and that I've shown to you all that we can do anything we put our minds and hearts into!
No Fat Lady to Sing...
But the show is over.
I didn't place, but I'm ok with that. Of course I'm disappointed, but the truth is that the girls that did place have worked really really hard and absolutely deserved it! While spending the day with the other competitors, I learned a lot! Some of those women had been training for YEARS before they did their first show. One girl I spoke with said she worked out hard for TWO years before getting up the nerve to do a show and then trained for a solid year before finally stepping on stage yesterday...wow!
I have loved this journey; my journey. Never in a million years did I think that I would be a contestant in a Figure Competition. I started this journey with the goal to lose weight, like I've said before, my goals changed and I just kept reaching them and setting new ones. Last night, I showed to myself that I can do anything when I put my heart into it and really work hard.
I'll post pictures soon!
I didn't place, but I'm ok with that. Of course I'm disappointed, but the truth is that the girls that did place have worked really really hard and absolutely deserved it! While spending the day with the other competitors, I learned a lot! Some of those women had been training for YEARS before they did their first show. One girl I spoke with said she worked out hard for TWO years before getting up the nerve to do a show and then trained for a solid year before finally stepping on stage yesterday...wow!
I have loved this journey; my journey. Never in a million years did I think that I would be a contestant in a Figure Competition. I started this journey with the goal to lose weight, like I've said before, my goals changed and I just kept reaching them and setting new ones. Last night, I showed to myself that I can do anything when I put my heart into it and really work hard.
I'll post pictures soon!
Friday, August 13, 2010
Final Hours
So I'm home, tan, tired and just ready to drop! Today has been a busy busy day!
I'm all registered, got my contestant number (#19), my tan is extremely dark, and I've still got one more tan in the morning! I'm too tired to blog more tonight, but all is going very well. I'll probably go to bed within the next hour or so. I still need to pack my suitcase/food/etc for tomorrow and be ready to leave by 7am! Tomorrow is going to be a long, but wonderful, day! I am super excited!
Thanks everyone for you love, good thoughts and support!
I'm all registered, got my contestant number (#19), my tan is extremely dark, and I've still got one more tan in the morning! I'm too tired to blog more tonight, but all is going very well. I'll probably go to bed within the next hour or so. I still need to pack my suitcase/food/etc for tomorrow and be ready to leave by 7am! Tomorrow is going to be a long, but wonderful, day! I am super excited!
Thanks everyone for you love, good thoughts and support!
Friday
OMG. Its the day before the show! YIKES!
I scheduled this entry to post on Friday morning, I'm not sure if I'll be able to blog on Friday and Saturday. I'm completely unfamiliar with all this and not sure what to expect in the next 48 hours.
Today, Blythe and I will apply my Pro-tan at 9am. I know its going to be DARK. I'm supposed to wear very very loose fitting clothing after she applies my first coat this morning. After the tan, I've got to get back to my daughter's show (she performs in her first musical today!) Immediately after the show, I've got to get to the host hotel to take my polygraph; all competitors are tested prior to the show. I'm competing in the OCB, its a natural bodybuilding organization and they are very strict about supplements, steroids, etc... Following my polygraph, I meet with the tanning artist for the competition and she will apply my final coat for the night. Then its back to the host hotel for check in/registration for the show. I'll then head home for a good night's rest!
Like I said, my day is jam-packed, but I'm not really sure what to expect or how smoothly things will go. If I can, I'll get back on here to post pictures of my tan and update the blog with any fun details!
I scheduled this entry to post on Friday morning, I'm not sure if I'll be able to blog on Friday and Saturday. I'm completely unfamiliar with all this and not sure what to expect in the next 48 hours.
Today, Blythe and I will apply my Pro-tan at 9am. I know its going to be DARK. I'm supposed to wear very very loose fitting clothing after she applies my first coat this morning. After the tan, I've got to get back to my daughter's show (she performs in her first musical today!) Immediately after the show, I've got to get to the host hotel to take my polygraph; all competitors are tested prior to the show. I'm competing in the OCB, its a natural bodybuilding organization and they are very strict about supplements, steroids, etc... Following my polygraph, I meet with the tanning artist for the competition and she will apply my final coat for the night. Then its back to the host hotel for check in/registration for the show. I'll then head home for a good night's rest!
Like I said, my day is jam-packed, but I'm not really sure what to expect or how smoothly things will go. If I can, I'll get back on here to post pictures of my tan and update the blog with any fun details!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Love and Support
This picture is just the absolute best! I love how everyone has been so supportive and encouraging! My son's summer camp teacher helped him make this sign on her last day of work. Thanks, Darbi!!! It brought tears to my eyes! My kids want to take it on Saturday and hold it up for me while I'm on stage!
I couldn't have done this without all the love and support of my family and friends! Thanks and HUGS to everyone!
Competition Tan
So with all this talk of shaving (which is seriously about the biggest annoyance of all this) I forgot to post yesterday about trying out my tanning product!
Blythe brought her Dream Tan to show me and let me take home to "play" with. I've got to say, nothing could have prepared me for how dark this stuff is! I'm not even going to look like me! I should warn everyone, my tan isn't going to look all "sun-kissed" or "Miami Beach"...its just DARK. Its sticky and nasty. :(
All I can say is that I'm glad I'm not the only one that's going to be covered in this gunk! Here's a picture of it on my arm... I am still in shock!
Thursday
Today was a blur!
I did a lot of running around today, trying to get all the last minute details. I got my eyelash extensions, a manicure/pedicure, finished some things for work and spent some time with my daughter (we went school clothes shopping). Today was just a go go go kind of day. I don't feel like I got much accomplished, but I've felt like I've been running non-stop. I suppose its because I was taking care of "beauty" things and getting my home and work all in order since I know I won't be doing much of anything tomorrow.
Is it ok for me to hyperventilate yet? I'm getting VERY scared and nervous! I just keep reminding myself that this is such a fun learning experience and in just a couple days, my life will be very calm.
Well, I'm off to do my final "pre-show shave"!
I did a lot of running around today, trying to get all the last minute details. I got my eyelash extensions, a manicure/pedicure, finished some things for work and spent some time with my daughter (we went school clothes shopping). Today was just a go go go kind of day. I don't feel like I got much accomplished, but I've felt like I've been running non-stop. I suppose its because I was taking care of "beauty" things and getting my home and work all in order since I know I won't be doing much of anything tomorrow.
Is it ok for me to hyperventilate yet? I'm getting VERY scared and nervous! I just keep reminding myself that this is such a fun learning experience and in just a couple days, my life will be very calm.
Well, I'm off to do my final "pre-show shave"!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Wednesday
AHHH. 2 days to go!
This morning, I had my last workout with Blythe. It was a very very light workout (she didn't want me to get sore). I started out on the rowing machine for ten minutes, then we did walking lunges, some ab work, did a couple sets for my calves, and finished up with pushups. Like I said, pretty easy...
After the light workout, I put my suit on for final progress pictures, worked on mandatory poses and the line up, and cranked up the music to do a dress rehearsal of my stage walk. I feel pretty good; confident. I then changed clothes into my fitness model apparel and practiced my stage walk (which is completely different from Figure in that its more relaxed, sassy and I have an opportunity to show my personality a little more) I felt like a complete boob! I'm not naturally a sassy person so I think I'm really going to have to work hard to ham it up!
After leaving Blythe, I met up with my husband for a bite to eat (I had the usual; 6 oz grilled salmon, 3/4 c rice, steamed veggies...I'll be glad when I change things up a bit!) and then finished up all my last minute shopping. I got the props for my fitness model outfit; a whistle and soccer ball. I got all the detailed jewelry and embellishments for my suit. I popped into GNC to grab some vitamins and water pills for my water depletion tomorrow and picked up a couple sponges to use to apply my basecoat of tan.
Tonight, I'll do a quick round of HIIT, have a light dinner and try and relax...although, I do run a business and the work is piling up all around me; I'll probably spend a few hours catching up in my home office. I'm thankful to have such an amazing team of teachers and staff at the preschool who have helped keep things running smoothly as I have prepared for this competition. I'll have to remember to really show my gratitude next week after all this madness ends. :o)
So that's it for Wednesday.
This morning, I had my last workout with Blythe. It was a very very light workout (she didn't want me to get sore). I started out on the rowing machine for ten minutes, then we did walking lunges, some ab work, did a couple sets for my calves, and finished up with pushups. Like I said, pretty easy...
After the light workout, I put my suit on for final progress pictures, worked on mandatory poses and the line up, and cranked up the music to do a dress rehearsal of my stage walk. I feel pretty good; confident. I then changed clothes into my fitness model apparel and practiced my stage walk (which is completely different from Figure in that its more relaxed, sassy and I have an opportunity to show my personality a little more) I felt like a complete boob! I'm not naturally a sassy person so I think I'm really going to have to work hard to ham it up!
After leaving Blythe, I met up with my husband for a bite to eat (I had the usual; 6 oz grilled salmon, 3/4 c rice, steamed veggies...I'll be glad when I change things up a bit!) and then finished up all my last minute shopping. I got the props for my fitness model outfit; a whistle and soccer ball. I got all the detailed jewelry and embellishments for my suit. I popped into GNC to grab some vitamins and water pills for my water depletion tomorrow and picked up a couple sponges to use to apply my basecoat of tan.
Tonight, I'll do a quick round of HIIT, have a light dinner and try and relax...although, I do run a business and the work is piling up all around me; I'll probably spend a few hours catching up in my home office. I'm thankful to have such an amazing team of teachers and staff at the preschool who have helped keep things running smoothly as I have prepared for this competition. I'll have to remember to really show my gratitude next week after all this madness ends. :o)
So that's it for Wednesday.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Tuesday
I had a wonderful workout with Blythe this morning. We did a 22 minute HIIT session on the treadmill. Walking briskly, sprinting, jogging backwards, side gallops and 10.5 incline! It really got my heartrate up!
After HIIT, we did a full body workout with lots of squats, shoulder presses, ab work, and some deltoid exercises; we threw in some biceps curls and hammer curls and finished up working my lats. It was a GREAT workout! I even did 2 PULL-UPS ALL BY MYSELF! YAY!
Today is a moderately high carb day (125g) and I'm feeling very good about that. I had a panacake this morning, topped with almond butter and natural jam; post workout I had a banana and a High 5 Protein Shake; for lunch I had a large salad with 6 oz of chicken; I'll snack later on a Muscle Milk Light and finish my day with 6 oz of spicy chicken and steamed veggies...I'm looking forward to expanding my options next week :o)
I'm headed out to purchase my show jewelry and pick up some last minute items that I need for my bag on Saturday. I'm also trying to think of ONE treat to bring with me...a cupcake? s'mores? A French Baquette? LOL! In all honesty, I really can't think of anything that I must have with me that day; I'll probably end up bringing a KitKat bar.
Tonight, I'll take it easy. I'm looking forward to loose pajama pants, a comfy couch and two spoiled children on my lap. Having a quiet night at home is just what I need to keep my mind from going into stress mode! Oh, and I can't forget that I'll do another round of shaving my body...I thought we did pretty good last night, but I'm seeing little patches on my arms, shoulders, etc where the hair is so fine and sparse that the razor must have just gone over it...
The week is moving quickly; I'm feeling very organized though!
After HIIT, we did a full body workout with lots of squats, shoulder presses, ab work, and some deltoid exercises; we threw in some biceps curls and hammer curls and finished up working my lats. It was a GREAT workout! I even did 2 PULL-UPS ALL BY MYSELF! YAY!
Today is a moderately high carb day (125g) and I'm feeling very good about that. I had a panacake this morning, topped with almond butter and natural jam; post workout I had a banana and a High 5 Protein Shake; for lunch I had a large salad with 6 oz of chicken; I'll snack later on a Muscle Milk Light and finish my day with 6 oz of spicy chicken and steamed veggies...I'm looking forward to expanding my options next week :o)
I'm headed out to purchase my show jewelry and pick up some last minute items that I need for my bag on Saturday. I'm also trying to think of ONE treat to bring with me...a cupcake? s'mores? A French Baquette? LOL! In all honesty, I really can't think of anything that I must have with me that day; I'll probably end up bringing a KitKat bar.
Tonight, I'll take it easy. I'm looking forward to loose pajama pants, a comfy couch and two spoiled children on my lap. Having a quiet night at home is just what I need to keep my mind from going into stress mode! Oh, and I can't forget that I'll do another round of shaving my body...I thought we did pretty good last night, but I'm seeing little patches on my arms, shoulders, etc where the hair is so fine and sparse that the razor must have just gone over it...
The week is moving quickly; I'm feeling very organized though!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Memorable Moments
This blog has been so much fun to write as I've gone through all my experiences prepping for a Figure Competition. At times, I wish this was more a video than writing, as there were some experiences that cannot be expressed through words. How I would have loved to seen some of the experiences as an outsider.
Looking back, I'm really happy with the progression of my journey. When I started working out last August, I was a complete NEWBIE in the gym. I worked out with my friend, Lisa. I hadn't had any real experience with workout equipment, in fact, my first week, I got injured so badly on a leg curl machine that it left me bruised for well over a month!
As I progressed with Lisa, I saw a gradual change. As the weight starting coming off, I felt myself pushing harder and harder to see greater results. 6 months after starting my workout, I hired a personal trainer, Kelly Gonzalez, and decided to persue my goal to compete in Figure Competition. Kelly worked with me to get me "clean eating" and working out to get a Figure girl's body. As life got crazy for Kelly (she was persuing her goal to be an IFBB Bikini Pro; which she accomplished LAST MONTH!!!!), and I got more and more serious about my goals, I sought out Blythe Alberg.
For the last 2.5 months, I've spent 4 hours a week driving to see Blythe and workout with her. She has monitored my food through www.fitday.com and I check in with her daily, sometimes several times a day, with my progress. Some of my most memorable moments with her are: flipping tires, running with sand bags on my back, jumping on to platforms (sometimes missing them all together and falling flat on my face) pushing the prowler and working out so hard I would feel like my stomach was turning inside out. There have been tears, laughs, nervous jitters, embarrassing moments, etc.
Some of my less than graceful moments include: as mentioned above not being able to jump up on a platform- my right leg refused to move so I jumped; it stayed planted and I fell HARD. The agility ladder: again, AA does not equal coordination. Ab routines that test the kegal muscles... Running while trying to jump rope and taking 10 minutes to finish 3 sit ups.
The most memorable moments through it all are really memorable feelings. Nothing compares to the feeling of living up to a commitment you've made to YOURSELF. I come off as a strong person to many, but the reality is I've always been very "weak", "insecure" and never had much faith in myself. Making goals over the last year and seeing myself reach those goals, set new ones and then reach those has just been amazing!
I read on someone's Facebook page last week about what people DON'T see in a Figure Competitor. People don't see the emotional meltdowns, the countless hours working out, the millions of times we have to resist a craving, the discipline to get out there and run/lift/sweat/you name it when all we'd really love to do is sleep, watch TV or snack on chocolate! What you "see" is our physical reward. The lean body, the tone physique, the muscles, the low body fat, etc. In truth, those are just side effects to the mental discipline, training, and commitment we've made.
"You are a figure athlete...Building an outer "you" to reflect the principles you hold dearest. On the outside, others can only see the physical manifestations of your training. Internally, you know your own iron will, your determination to do what's best for yourself, your unwillingness to "be like everyone else". You love every second of those challenging times and keep coming back for more. You live and breathe your philosophy, and it shines through in your work and relationships. You encourage others to pursue their ideals, because it takes nothing away from your own achievements. You live in the moment and appreciate that small positives in life are richly rewarding....And you look damn good, all the while. "
Looking back, I'm really happy with the progression of my journey. When I started working out last August, I was a complete NEWBIE in the gym. I worked out with my friend, Lisa. I hadn't had any real experience with workout equipment, in fact, my first week, I got injured so badly on a leg curl machine that it left me bruised for well over a month!
As I progressed with Lisa, I saw a gradual change. As the weight starting coming off, I felt myself pushing harder and harder to see greater results. 6 months after starting my workout, I hired a personal trainer, Kelly Gonzalez, and decided to persue my goal to compete in Figure Competition. Kelly worked with me to get me "clean eating" and working out to get a Figure girl's body. As life got crazy for Kelly (she was persuing her goal to be an IFBB Bikini Pro; which she accomplished LAST MONTH!!!!), and I got more and more serious about my goals, I sought out Blythe Alberg.
For the last 2.5 months, I've spent 4 hours a week driving to see Blythe and workout with her. She has monitored my food through www.fitday.com and I check in with her daily, sometimes several times a day, with my progress. Some of my most memorable moments with her are: flipping tires, running with sand bags on my back, jumping on to platforms (sometimes missing them all together and falling flat on my face) pushing the prowler and working out so hard I would feel like my stomach was turning inside out. There have been tears, laughs, nervous jitters, embarrassing moments, etc.
Some of my less than graceful moments include: as mentioned above not being able to jump up on a platform- my right leg refused to move so I jumped; it stayed planted and I fell HARD. The agility ladder: again, AA does not equal coordination. Ab routines that test the kegal muscles... Running while trying to jump rope and taking 10 minutes to finish 3 sit ups.
The most memorable moments through it all are really memorable feelings. Nothing compares to the feeling of living up to a commitment you've made to YOURSELF. I come off as a strong person to many, but the reality is I've always been very "weak", "insecure" and never had much faith in myself. Making goals over the last year and seeing myself reach those goals, set new ones and then reach those has just been amazing!
I read on someone's Facebook page last week about what people DON'T see in a Figure Competitor. People don't see the emotional meltdowns, the countless hours working out, the millions of times we have to resist a craving, the discipline to get out there and run/lift/sweat/you name it when all we'd really love to do is sleep, watch TV or snack on chocolate! What you "see" is our physical reward. The lean body, the tone physique, the muscles, the low body fat, etc. In truth, those are just side effects to the mental discipline, training, and commitment we've made.
"You are a figure athlete...Building an outer "you" to reflect the principles you hold dearest. On the outside, others can only see the physical manifestations of your training. Internally, you know your own iron will, your determination to do what's best for yourself, your unwillingness to "be like everyone else". You love every second of those challenging times and keep coming back for more. You live and breathe your philosophy, and it shines through in your work and relationships. You encourage others to pursue their ideals, because it takes nothing away from your own achievements. You live in the moment and appreciate that small positives in life are richly rewarding....And you look damn good, all the while. "
Monday
So today the madness begins. I've got my checklist prepared and I'm working on getting organized. There will be some fun things going on this week, some exciting things, and then some not-so-glamorous things I'll share... Its all happening so quickly and I just want to be sure that I really take the time to enjoy the experience and adequately document my journey.
For today, I'm putting together my timeline/agenda for the week and just making sure that I'm as prepared as I can possibly be. Blythe emailed me my checklist for competitiong day:
Shoes & Suit
Jewelry
Make up & Fake Eye Lashes
Brush/Comb
Hair spray/products
Bikini Bite
Gum or mints if you like/ toothbrush
Oil, ProTan or Jan Tana (unless you are having spray tan done @ show)
Dream Tan (if you are doing your own tan)
Disposable Gloves
Hand Towels/wash cloth
Safety Pins
Baby Wipes/Q tips
Curling Iron/Flat iron
Mirror
Music (if applicable)
Cash for tickets, membership, etc
Membership Card
Cooler with food packed for the day
Treat for aftershow
I'll be putting a bag/suitcase together this week. Thankfully, my niece, Jenifer will be doing my make-up and hair the day of the show, so I know she'll have all that equipment and make-up. Blythe is bringing some of the stuff too. It just helps to have a checklist to remind myself of everything.
Tonight, I will do a hard round of HIIT and then a full body workout. After that, I will shave my ENTIRE body (arms, legs, bikini area, peach fuzz on back, chest and tummy...everything but my face). YAY ME! From what I understand, the tanning products used for competition require absolutely NO body hair or fuzz. I'll shave every day until Thursday to be sure to get a smooth, razor bump free body! YIKES!
Foodwise, I'm on a medium carb day. I've enjoyed my oatmeal pancake and 3/4 c of rice today with my meals. I feel very good, I have great energy and like I said, I'm just trying to enjoy the week and savor the experience!
For today, I'm putting together my timeline/agenda for the week and just making sure that I'm as prepared as I can possibly be. Blythe emailed me my checklist for competitiong day:
Shoes & Suit
Jewelry
Make up & Fake Eye Lashes
Brush/Comb
Hair spray/products
Bikini Bite
Gum or mints if you like/ toothbrush
Oil, ProTan or Jan Tana (unless you are having spray tan done @ show)
Dream Tan (if you are doing your own tan)
Disposable Gloves
Hand Towels/wash cloth
Safety Pins
Baby Wipes/Q tips
Curling Iron/Flat iron
Mirror
Music (if applicable)
Cash for tickets, membership, etc
Membership Card
Cooler with food packed for the day
Treat for aftershow
I'll be putting a bag/suitcase together this week. Thankfully, my niece, Jenifer will be doing my make-up and hair the day of the show, so I know she'll have all that equipment and make-up. Blythe is bringing some of the stuff too. It just helps to have a checklist to remind myself of everything.
Tonight, I will do a hard round of HIIT and then a full body workout. After that, I will shave my ENTIRE body (arms, legs, bikini area, peach fuzz on back, chest and tummy...everything but my face). YAY ME! From what I understand, the tanning products used for competition require absolutely NO body hair or fuzz. I'll shave every day until Thursday to be sure to get a smooth, razor bump free body! YIKES!
Foodwise, I'm on a medium carb day. I've enjoyed my oatmeal pancake and 3/4 c of rice today with my meals. I feel very good, I have great energy and like I said, I'm just trying to enjoy the week and savor the experience!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Getting Close!
So I'm just DAYS away from my competition! I haven't been blogging much...well... because quite honestly, I'm just trying not to think too much right now. I've worked out hard for the last year (really only trained for the competition since February of this year) I've been on a strict nutrition plan for months now; constantly changing it, modifying it to fit my daily/weekly/monthly goals, and I have come to the point where I'm just trying to relax and enjoy these last few steps until the big day.
I've been surrounded by great friends and family and really focusing on the rewards of this journey. My friends and family have expressed how proud they are of me, I feel amazing (aside from the absurd food cravings and low energy I've had these last two weeks) and I'm feeling 100% mentally prepared for this Saturday.
I'm absolutely DONE with the food I've been eating on a daily basis (hence the weird food cravings- I actually want a foot long hot dog loaded with relish, mustard and onions. Nevermind the fact that I intend on indulging myself with a super thick and creamy chocolate milkshake to wash said hotdog down and then I'll end my feast with a ooey-gooey brownie) My sister-in-law, Jessica says, "You'll take one bite and be sick!"
She's probably right. I'm actually not too worried about what my eating habits will be like after this weekend. I'm feeling somewhat prepared. I know that I'll be able to eat whatever I want because now I understand portion control, clean eating and re-setting my body so that I don't store the crap and fat that my body was so used to a year ago... I'm sure I'll blog lots about how my newfound knowledge of food has changed how I want and choose to eat on a daily basis. Blythe and John said that I'll probably always eat like I'm "pre-contest" and just allow myself "treats" knowing that I can easily work it off or "reset" my body. I'll definitely keep you posted on how my nutrition changes in the following weeks.
Tomorrow is when the craziness begins for the show. I'll do my best to document each day what I experience! I can't believe this is really happening!
I've been surrounded by great friends and family and really focusing on the rewards of this journey. My friends and family have expressed how proud they are of me, I feel amazing (aside from the absurd food cravings and low energy I've had these last two weeks) and I'm feeling 100% mentally prepared for this Saturday.
I'm absolutely DONE with the food I've been eating on a daily basis (hence the weird food cravings- I actually want a foot long hot dog loaded with relish, mustard and onions. Nevermind the fact that I intend on indulging myself with a super thick and creamy chocolate milkshake to wash said hotdog down and then I'll end my feast with a ooey-gooey brownie) My sister-in-law, Jessica says, "You'll take one bite and be sick!"
She's probably right. I'm actually not too worried about what my eating habits will be like after this weekend. I'm feeling somewhat prepared. I know that I'll be able to eat whatever I want because now I understand portion control, clean eating and re-setting my body so that I don't store the crap and fat that my body was so used to a year ago... I'm sure I'll blog lots about how my newfound knowledge of food has changed how I want and choose to eat on a daily basis. Blythe and John said that I'll probably always eat like I'm "pre-contest" and just allow myself "treats" knowing that I can easily work it off or "reset" my body. I'll definitely keep you posted on how my nutrition changes in the following weeks.
Tomorrow is when the craziness begins for the show. I'll do my best to document each day what I experience! I can't believe this is really happening!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Feeling Lean
I'm feeling pretty lean this week. My weight hasn't really dropped anymore, Blythe says that's a good thing. Even though my friend the scale isn't budging, I definitely FEEL lean. I will admit, this isn't a comfortable place for me. I'm actually looking forward to putting on about 5-7 lbs after Aug. 14th.
My measurements were down again last week, mostly in my waist and hips. YAY! I'm curious to see where my measurements will be tomorrow. I'm leveling out at 120lbs (full) and I've got nice dimensions and symmetry. I think that this will be my strong area.
Today I saw some amazing definition in my quads, triceps, deltoids and back. Both Blythe and I were super excited about that! I can't wait to get some progress pictures tomorrow and see if we can see any changes from last week!
Tomorrow, I'd like to see some measurements come down, body fat drop at least 1% and I would LOVE to see some ab definition in my progress pictures. Fingers crossed! There's not much more I think I can do in these last 9 days, but at least I've given it my best and I think that I've done pretty well for my first show prep! I can't wait until competition day to see how I compare to the other Novice girls. This will definitely be a learning experience!
My measurements were down again last week, mostly in my waist and hips. YAY! I'm curious to see where my measurements will be tomorrow. I'm leveling out at 120lbs (full) and I've got nice dimensions and symmetry. I think that this will be my strong area.
Today I saw some amazing definition in my quads, triceps, deltoids and back. Both Blythe and I were super excited about that! I can't wait to get some progress pictures tomorrow and see if we can see any changes from last week!
Tomorrow, I'd like to see some measurements come down, body fat drop at least 1% and I would LOVE to see some ab definition in my progress pictures. Fingers crossed! There's not much more I think I can do in these last 9 days, but at least I've given it my best and I think that I've done pretty well for my first show prep! I can't wait until competition day to see how I compare to the other Novice girls. This will definitely be a learning experience!
Monday, August 2, 2010
The Real Reward
Some might think that when I say, "the reward is in the journey" that I'm just trying to brace myself for the fact that I might not do that well in competition. I'll admit, there have been times I've thought that about myself too. Of course I want to do well in the competition, if the competition didn't mean anything, then why would I even participate? Having said that, regardless of how I do in the competition, I know where the REAL reward lies.
When I got home from work this evening, I changed my clothes, popped in my ear buds and headed out the door for a quick round of HIIT cardio. As I was about to walk out the door, my daughter says, "Mommy, I want to run with you!" At first I was reluctant, but she insisted and I agreed to let her come along.
Our neighborhood is small and secluded. I knew that I would be able to see her at all times and that there is minimal traffic. So the plan was for me to walk with her for 2 minutes, sprint ahead for 1 minute, then walk back to her and walk for 2 minutes, sprint...etc for 25 minutes. I was so proud of her for running the full minute during the sprints (obviously, she's 6 and wasn't as fast as me, but man did she try!)
My daughter isn't athletic, in fact, she's the OPPOSITE of athletic. She's not confident in her physical abilities, she's clumsy, quirky, and just not a very physical person. Our experiences with t-ball and lacrosse were less than triumphant as she spent most of the season picking flowers, singing, holding hands with other friends, and riding her lacrosse stick like a pony along the sidelines. I suppose that's pretty typical for 5 and 6 year old girls...
During our cardio training today though, she pushed herself. She pumped her arms, stretched her daddy-long-legs and SWEAT. She was working so hard! I cheered her on as she sprinted behind me, we walked together and chatted about how hard we ran and she actually got a little competitive with me (that's not typical of her!) On our cool down home, we held hands and laughed. She spoke in an exasperated tone, exclaiming comments such as, "wow! that was hard! You did awesome, Mom! Did you see how fast I can run? Can I run with you tomorrow too?"
It was that moment I felt like a winner! My journey has been an example to my daughter. See, I'm much like her...never have I really been an athlete, I'm clumsy, awkward, I run into non-moving objects (such as furniture and walls!) and I've never ever been confident in my physical abilities... I guess the apple doesn't fall far... Today I saw that I've been setting an example. I showed my daughter that we can do anything we put our mind to and that we are stronger than we think we are.
I got a little teary as we walked home. I never want my daughter to feel trapped or stuck with her physical appearance or abilities. I want her to feel empowered and know that she has 100% control over her health and fitness. Today...that was a REAL reward!
When I got home from work this evening, I changed my clothes, popped in my ear buds and headed out the door for a quick round of HIIT cardio. As I was about to walk out the door, my daughter says, "Mommy, I want to run with you!" At first I was reluctant, but she insisted and I agreed to let her come along.
Our neighborhood is small and secluded. I knew that I would be able to see her at all times and that there is minimal traffic. So the plan was for me to walk with her for 2 minutes, sprint ahead for 1 minute, then walk back to her and walk for 2 minutes, sprint...etc for 25 minutes. I was so proud of her for running the full minute during the sprints (obviously, she's 6 and wasn't as fast as me, but man did she try!)
My daughter isn't athletic, in fact, she's the OPPOSITE of athletic. She's not confident in her physical abilities, she's clumsy, quirky, and just not a very physical person. Our experiences with t-ball and lacrosse were less than triumphant as she spent most of the season picking flowers, singing, holding hands with other friends, and riding her lacrosse stick like a pony along the sidelines. I suppose that's pretty typical for 5 and 6 year old girls...
During our cardio training today though, she pushed herself. She pumped her arms, stretched her daddy-long-legs and SWEAT. She was working so hard! I cheered her on as she sprinted behind me, we walked together and chatted about how hard we ran and she actually got a little competitive with me (that's not typical of her!) On our cool down home, we held hands and laughed. She spoke in an exasperated tone, exclaiming comments such as, "wow! that was hard! You did awesome, Mom! Did you see how fast I can run? Can I run with you tomorrow too?"
It was that moment I felt like a winner! My journey has been an example to my daughter. See, I'm much like her...never have I really been an athlete, I'm clumsy, awkward, I run into non-moving objects (such as furniture and walls!) and I've never ever been confident in my physical abilities... I guess the apple doesn't fall far... Today I saw that I've been setting an example. I showed my daughter that we can do anything we put our mind to and that we are stronger than we think we are.
I got a little teary as we walked home. I never want my daughter to feel trapped or stuck with her physical appearance or abilities. I want her to feel empowered and know that she has 100% control over her health and fitness. Today...that was a REAL reward!
Familiar Feelings
Oddly enough, the only way I can describe my feelings right now sort of feel like how I felt when I was approaching my due date during pregnancy.
What should I expect?
I'm nervous, excited, anxious...
I've waited so long and now it's really happening!
How will it go? Will I be strong? Will I be scared? How will I know what to do?
I think of the posing practice as like lamaze. Its ridiculous how this has all resonated with me!
So that's my thought for the day... I feel like I'm preparing for Labor and Delivery and I have no idea what to really expect! I won't get to come home with a baby, but I can't help but feel like I'm waiting for something really exciting to happen and that I'll finally feel like all my hard work and waiting paid off!
What should I expect?
I'm nervous, excited, anxious...
I've waited so long and now it's really happening!
How will it go? Will I be strong? Will I be scared? How will I know what to do?
I think of the posing practice as like lamaze. Its ridiculous how this has all resonated with me!
So that's my thought for the day... I feel like I'm preparing for Labor and Delivery and I have no idea what to really expect! I won't get to come home with a baby, but I can't help but feel like I'm waiting for something really exciting to happen and that I'll finally feel like all my hard work and waiting paid off!
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