In 2010, I saw a personal trainer practice posing and it was amazing to look at her from my point of view as an artist. I watched her closely and she said that we could "compete together." I thought I was too old and she raved about the masters over 35 class (she didn't know I was much older than age 35).
Soon after, I went to a bodybuilding show and was amazed by the amount of beauty. The people on stage looked like people in magazines—stunning. I couldn't picture myself ever doing something like that at the time.
In 2011, I hired a bodybuilding family to prepare me for my first show because I didn't how to diet or work out. In June 2011, I stepped on stage for the first time and loved it. I ate more food than ever (6-8 meals per day), drank water all day (one or more gallons) and saw that my body could take it. It was mind blowing to see myself change so dramatically.
I'm a mother of two with a 14-year-old son who plays sports and added weightlifting when he saw my success. He stays after school every day for two hours and trains. He's addicted to lifting. When he comes home, we talk about his workout for the day.
My daughter just turned 11 years old and plays many sports too. She is my big helper and my personal tanning girl when competition season comes. She goes to every show, takes my photos, and became a staff member at many shows. They know her and she loves to help.
Between pre-judging and the night show, I make sure to dedicate time for my kids in the afternoon. I take them to the movies and let them eat whatever they want, or we go to the museum with ice cream. My children are the biggest support in my bodybuilding journey.
I have passion for everything in my life. I'm an avid oil painter and put passion into my art every time it hits the canvas. Every stroke is love, care, and how I want it. I feel the same way about fitness. I have respect for beautiful people with beautiful bodies. I understand how hard it is to look and feel good. I love to feel and look good every day.
I'm a self-motivator. As a mother of two, I must do a good job and be the best example for my kids so they have a legacy to carry throughout life. This is a lifestyle many don't have the discipline for. I love competing, being on stage, and the show prep. People get nervous, but I'm out there with a big smile and have fun while others stress out.
I'm usually tired from house work, but I still push myself to work out. I travel a lot for my job and make sure to carry my gym bag wherever I go.
I have three shows coming up this year. I'm most looking forward to nationals in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November. I will be more ready than ever.
If this worked for me, it can absolutely work for you. People think I was born fit, but I train hard, eat clean, and take care of my body. I choose not to waste my life in night clubs. I choose to cook my food and say no to candy.
My two favorites are Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno. I met Lou at a charity event for deaf children and found out he is deaf also. His history and childhood is an inspiration to me, particularly when he filmed The Incredible Hulk and said he couldn't hear. I saw Lou again this year at the Arnold Classic and gave him a hug. He remembered having lunch with me in 2006.
Bodybuilding.com is my one-stop-shop when I need to get my supplement supply. I trust Bodybuilding.com because of the experience they provide and when they call to follow up. What other company calls to make sure you are satisfied with your shopping experience?
- "Lights" by Journey
- "We Are Young" by Fun
- "DJ Got Us Fallin' in Love" by Usher
- "Wild Ones" by Flo Rida (feat. Sia)
- "The Time (Dirty Bit)" by The Black Eyed Peas