First my husband. Not only did he live through all my temper tantrums and emotional outbursts, but he helped to see me through them. He was my rock through it all.
My Mom and Brother were a God send. They willfully looked after the kids everyday so I could get to the gym. Thank you! THANK YOU THANK YOU! Also thank you for being at my show.
Michelle Riechart of Healthy Bodies was a huge supporter. Always positive and pushing me. There were times when I was down and she reminded me that no matter how I did I'm in the best shape of my life. Thats the biggest trophy to take home. Thank you Michelle!
My kids deserve the biggest THANK YOU of all! They suffered through the early mornings, late nights, hiding their snacks, and constantly reminding me of how proud of me they are. They sacrificed just as much as I did for that medal. They deserve to wear it around their neck as well!
The competition was amazing. What a great experience. Six months of hard dieting and training came down to the 2 minutes on stage. The anticipation back stage waiting to hear your division being called was a little much. My metabolism went into hyper drive from the anxiety (a little late to pick up that much). I literally would watch my muscles shrink minutes after eating.
When the time came to go on stage. I choked. Thats right for the first 30 secs, I fell apart. Hearing Steve, Michelle and my family in the crowd helped me get back in the game. I was in the middle a back pose when I snapped out of it. I managed to pull it all together and then the morning show was done. Yup that quick!
So then the night show came and we were all called on stage one at a time for our presentation poses. The judges called us all to the front and sent us off stage to wait and hear the top five.
That was the longest minute I suffered throughout the entire six months. Here I thought watching the treadmill count down took forever...HA! Let me tell you though, the second your number is called......I was so happy to be in the top five! I didn't care what I placed, I met my goal and I felt like a million bucks!
Next to my family, competing was the most gratifying accomplishment of my life. I would recommend it to anyone. Not only did I change my appearance, I also changed my lifestyle. I still maintain the diet, the training and now I am prepping for my next competition in October!
Thank you again to everyone who helped me get there.