Lisa just trying to figure things out blog!

Me at my favorite Emcee's Wedding Reception

2011-08-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

I am the one in the black shirt, I am just a tad thicker then a couple of years ago! Had to learn that I needed food to grow and that not everyone can be on the same diet to gain results. 2 shows ago I was told Lisa you are to cut, lean and need to be bigger so I thought ok if that is what you want will do and where is my fork! Plus I have changed gym which has helped me focus because everyone is so intense at this gym no more spending half my time chatting away! In and out usually within one hour and I love it.......sometimes change is good and I am lifting heavier then ever you see I still want those big ass meaty shoulders!

Everyone have a great weekend,

Lisa

2011-08-24T13:41:00.000-07:00

I have been gone so long from the Blog World and miss reading about all the great success stories about people just like me, wanting to train and get better with every workout striving for real results! I am needing motivation so I believe I will have to comeback and get re-energized by the people that motivate me the most my fellow competitors!

I am know 100% Qualified for Nationals! Yeah it only took 6 years but I finally did it and I have so much to work on if I go, would love to do another show before that time because I would not to be greedy but to take the Overall Title at a show would be freaky awesome.......when I won my classes in May I just kindof looked at the judges like did you all just call my number? Must be like got sick of seeing my face and decided to give me a bone. LOL

Anyways I can't wait to get up on all the blogs and see everyone's progress!

Lisa

Why do I believe I can still do this?

2010-12-08T08:02:00.000-08:00

Because I can! Sorry short but sweet.

Hugs today

Lisa

The L.A.W.

2010-12-06T07:53:00.000-08:00

Yep been final since October 19, 2010, I have taken back my old name the one my Dad gave me! My girls are adjusting well and so am I. found so much strength in the past couple of years it is wonderful! I am not weak, nor shy and will never make myself feel less then good enough becuase of someone's elses Negative Energy.

Changes sometimes are scarey but good, switching Gym's in a week, as a friend said I was Graduating to the next step in my goals of competing, see I am giving myself one my year to try this whole competiting thingy! Lifting heavier each week and gaining weight, my mind has been on looking good at the gym for so long that I forgot that in the off-season I need growth which means more calories.......it's a total mind game believe me and hard for some of us to do (Gain Weight) but if I want to give myself one last chance at Nationals I must do what needs to be done! Eat the hell up, lol

Anyways life is looking up and I have so many blessing's just hope I can give back to the Universe what has been given to me!

Peace and Love,

Lisa Williams

Have not posted since March 5

2010-08-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

God it seems like this year has flown by so fast my wants and desires and still intact....competed back in May and was told I was to cut, ripped and lean for figure see they want us girls fuller! I had a goal this year but life sometimes gets in the way of your passions and being the body type I am I lost weight without even trying because see I have had many life changes since January but still held tight to my goal in May it kept me focused and fueled something I felt I needed to escape everyday life see I have used the Gym as my escape for many years as it has become my second home, the one place I could almost go into a meditative mode, just me and my IPod hammering it out and feeling stronger and charged in the end of workout.

Ok here it goes for years I have felt stressed and sick even had shingles at 34, never could put my finger on what my body was trying to tell me or what God was trying to tell me, The negative Energy around me at home was eating me up inside......literally eating me up until I had seen every Doctor known to man I decided it was in my head and went to hash all the manusha in my head out, who knew I had so much! Anyways back in January I filled for the big D. I figured at 39 either this was my lifes path or I make the choice for a different life while I was young enough to live it! If you have ever been through a divorce you will know that my decision did not come lightly and honestly even though my mind denied it I probably knew 3 years ago the truth I wanted my family together so I needed to come to terms my own health and what it was doing to me, what kindof of mother would I be if I was not mentally present!

Anyways fast forward and we are smack dap in August and I am a few weeks away from being a Independent, strong as bitch something for some reason along the way I forgot I could be! I will Prevail as Kai Greene says and my dreams will come true if I believe, and ya know what I finally believe in me and honestly I feel good.

Sorry for not posting in so long like I said sometimes life just gets in the ways and sometimes things must be put on the back burner for a bit but my motivation is coming back! Check this out I have even caught myself posing at the Gym.

Peace, Love and Muscle my blogger Friends,

Lisa

1 Day Left

2010-03-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

So excited about my road trip to the Arnold.....outfit picked out, camera ready, and if I see the big man Ronnie Coleman who inspires me I am so begging for a picture with him! (Light Weight) think that every time I lift. Some of my Michigan Girls that I have stood on stage with competed in the Masters AM division so I am really excited to see if anyone of them made the cut for the Finals! Lets be honest I have to see what I am up for this year competing and I want to win, not just place WIN.......Yep I said it and if you go in with the attitude 5th place is great you will probably fall into 5th place I am shooting for number 1! Yeah I said it if you want something state it put it in the Universe.

I will definitely be posting allot of pictures on my blog for all to see come next week or earlier if I can get it done Sunday. If anyone wants to me to take a picture with anyone special give me feed back and I will do my best to seek that person out at the Expo!

Have a great Weekend I will!!!!

Lisa

The Arnold Weekend

2010-03-03T07:41:00.000-08:00

So this year I actually am going to the Arnold and am sooo excited! Road Trip for Lisa don't not even care if I have to go by myself just to be around some of the greats in my sport is going to be awesome. My question is if anyone from my blog is going also as I would love to meet and chat I just think that would be so cool! Also I want to see the AM finals at 10:00am, does anyone know if you can buy the tickets at the door? Because last minute Lisa has not bought a ticket yet.......what can I say I procrastinate!

I am trying a trial diet this week giving up my beloved Peanut Butter and Banana's!
just to see how I look by the end of the week. See if it makes a difference. Still keeping Carbs in the diet....if I don't I will be to skinny! Not a good look on me.

Anyways if your going to the Arnold give me a shout out!

Peace, Love and Muscle,

Lisa T.

Friday Post

2010-02-26T07:24:00.000-08:00

Aw sweet Friday........Weekend Coming up in a few hours and I can't wait, just to sleep in would be a beautiful thing, Hit the Gym early tomorrow and knock it out and on to my glorious cheat meal! I will start getting tighter on the diet starting in March so I have a couple more days before I worry about peeling the fat off my booty God I hope I have some muscle under there.

Tomorrow will be Leg day, deep squats, 21's, walking lunges, Leg presses, Donkey Calf Raises maybe hit some Ab work, must have plan in place before I hit the Gym.
Saturday's at the Y. are usually long ones not just because of my workouts but the little one likes to play, Eat lunch and run around the track which is good because it gets some of that energy out of her and believe me she has alot.....I tell people that is why I have to workout just to keep up with her! I call her Dash from the Incredibles, she might be short but she can run like the wind. My oldest is 13 in another month and a 1/2 so all she wants to do is sleep until noon on a Saturday! That would be heaven but as a mom we do not really have that luxury, if I could only go back into time I would not have wanted to grow up so fast. Can't believe I will be 39 this year the years have flown by...hoping the next 39 are filled with the best life has to offer!

Have a great Weekend Everyone,

Lisa T.

May 8th 2010

2010-02-16T15:31:00.000-08:00

Just putting it out into the Universe!

Thats all I got, totally dying for a paczki today(Fat Tuesday)

Lisa

Patients

2010-02-15T10:41:00.000-08:00

Ok I think I am starting to get anxious about May and have to stay focused and keep reminding myself slow down Lisa this is a process and do not rush it. What I mean is I want to mentally be show ready now! Can't happen must wait.... but I want to see what is under that ass fat people, get rid of the fat between the muscle and see what is there!

I think my lack of patients came this weekend when I tried on a banging swimsuit and saw my ass in it.......I want it round and perky, now if I bend over it looks pretty good, but it needs to look good when I am standing straight up! LOL, Plus this year I really, really want to go to the Arnold and I know those girls are going to be looking good and that is what I want! Let me clarify I don't want to compete at the Arnold just go and check it out. See the Expo with all the like minded people and see all of the greats of the sport who have kept me motivated over the last several years. See them in person and take some great pictures. Plus I would love to catch the AM Figure Finals just to see what the judges are looking at this year, you know damn well it changes year to year! Soft, Hard, Kind of Hard but not to Soft.......totally could not be a judge! Personally I like the hard look only because for me it shows you literally worked and Dieted your ass off and did all that you could do! But what is my opinion worth, not to darn much.

Anyways I have this little Upper Respiratory thing going on so I was thinking of taking tonight off and hitting it hard tomorrow morning so I feel stronger. Yesterday I made it in but just walked and kicked the bag. Nothing big but something is better then nothing!

Peace, Love and Muscle,

Lisa T.

The Booty is a hurting

2010-02-05T06:19:00.000-08:00

Ok did not even work the Gluts yesterday and they are on fire this morning? Does this mean the muscle under the fat is growing, God I hope so because if you want to win I am convinced you must have a good butt.......tight and small when you do you back pose, personally I will be sticking mine up in the air so far the Sun might hit it! LOL

Yesterday I actually did chest and tri's. Still doing Negatives on my Inclines so I can eventually get strong enough to hit the higher weight and rep it out! Did my weighted dips ok only 10 extra pounds for 4 sets but better then nothing right? I just want some thickness to the chest to match with the back. Back not so bad lots of Definition. Also started doing Donkey Calf raises with my 180 pound friend on my back, the damn things have always been so stubborn to grow! I blame it on Genetics my mom says I have Chicken Legs! Is that mean or what? Still love the moms though.
She might say I have Chicken Legs but I have the best mom ever. I could tell the first time she saw me compete she was very proud........before hand she did not understand what the hell I was doing and why my diet was so strict but she got it afterwards! Mothers will always worry, she thought I was to skinny until she saw me on stage posing. For some reason when you are all carbed up and pumped you look bigger on that great stage.

Taking Tonight off and will hit Shoulders in the morning still gotta get them meaty
I hit them from every angle I really think Shoulder day is my favorite. Love feeling them getting all pumped up and ok sometimes at the Gym I pose, people probably think I have a vanity issue but posing is a big part of competing!

Anyways will you know how the shoulders feel tomorrow.....tomorrow cheat day also! Yeah one meal eat whatever I want. No Guilt!

Awe life is good,

Lisa T.

Excited but Nervous

2010-02-03T11:45:00.000-08:00

OK here is my deal today at work I was approached about going full-time which is good because I need to really be able to take care of my girls....priority number 1 in my life! It would take a certain part of stress away from my life knowing I can do this and they actually have faith in me to take on added responsibility.

But and you know there is always a butt I have this nagging little selfish voice that says so Lisa how the hell can you do it all.......meaning training, prepping, competing! I know we have many other mothers who work full-time that do it so I should be able to as well it will just take a great plan of attack to get in and out of the gym, food I am not concerned about, I sit at a desk all day and eat probably more structured at the work place then at home when I am running Taxi Service with my girls. Hell Cynthia Herndon worked the freaking Midnight shift and is a mother and still got her Pro Card! Do not know how you did it C.? If for my Birthday I have to ask for Dumbbells for the house and get creative that is what I will have to do, I have come so far I do not want to stop now when things are coming together and starting to flow with the lines of my body........did that even make sense I guess if you compete you understand.

I will just have to have a I can do anything attitude! Just like I can take care of my girls and myself and the belief that God will take of it if you let go and let God lead you even if sometimes he might have to carry you!

Peace, Love and Muscle and to the girls prepping for the Arnold.........you are so close to the stage, stay focused, strong and remember you have already won, girls you have won your going to the big stage with the best, when you walk out hold your heads high and stare those judges in the eyes and make them notice your hard ass work you deserve it! Most people would not even consider going and doing what you are prepping for out of fear which goes back to my last post getting out of your comfort zone. How can you ever achieve anything great just talking the talk but never putting in the work to make things happen for you! Go kick ass, personally when I compete in May mine better be little ass. LOL

Lisa

January 29, 2010

2010-01-29T12:06:00.000-08:00

I was just going through my blog for 2009 and came across a post I made on the 28Th of January.......1 year and 1 day ago and it was titled something to like "Get your back off the wall" and the blog was about leaving that comfortable place that just keeps you comfortable but not truly happy, well my blogger friends I have learned this year leaving the comfortable can be the scariest most uncomfortable place when living through it but if you ever want to get to the other side of life you most do what needs to be done to reach your full potential as a person.

In reading my blog again it reminded me that in times I may have lost my MoJo, desire or passion to compete but something always wants to drive me back in that direction....if you have a dream of going onto a bigger stage does that ever really go away? I say no. It is like unfinished business and inside me is a competitor it is my nature. However I still fear falling on my face or doubt my ability to really do it. But I will do my best to work past that fear and make my dreams come true on and off the stage.

Have a great day,

Lisa T.

The Pain

2010-01-27T07:44:00.000-08:00

The pain feels so good....is that a sick statement or what, but that means I did what set out to do last night which was hit it hard, like one of the big girls! Thank God I did not encounter any smelly people last night in my area's. My upper body is screaming at me this morning! I know part of it is those damn inclines because I have been doing negatives on my way down on an 8 count only dropped the weight once on my lap, just kind of of looked around until one of the workers spotted me and helped me get it back on the rack then of course I had to use him as a spot for the last set! Hey they get paid right? Plus he is a little cutey pie all the teenage girls love him, me personally old enough to be his mama! Just can't go that young........not officially a Cougar yet! Turn 39 in April. I would be an Aries girl. I think someone on my blog is an April Fools baby? LOL, I tease but the girl is no fool believe me.

Some how I am feeling like May is going to be just around the corner for competition time, still have sometime to build but always worried about the gluts and butt! I have been doing deep ass squats which I really think once I get the fat off of it maybe I will see some muscle! Wish me luck.

Peace, Love and Muscle,

Lisa

Thinking of starting to stone suits for sale

2010-01-20T08:17:00.001-08:00

Ok everyone If I start stoning and selling suits I will design them myself and put them on here and Diva does anyone have any idea's what color's are the most popular?

Please let me know thinking of taking profit from last suit and just starting with one see if it sells and so on!

Just a thought.

Lisa

Oh and by the way I was at the Gym the other night and I literally could not do inclines because the guy behind me was sooooo funky I could not breathe! And then of course I had to check myself first just to make sure but believe me the funk was not mine! Can these guys not smell? Good God wash your butt sometimes dudes! Sorry T.M.I.

Sold!!!!!! Suit for Sale

2010-01-11T08:25:00.000-08:00

OK I am doing it......my suit is for sale if anyone on this Blog is interested the suit has small bottom with full C Top, Strings never cut, suit never altered. 2000 stones if not more. Suit stoned by me only worn once and ordered from CC fit wear out of Florida.

Asking 600.00 or best offer

Just leave me a comment if interested.......will put on Diva if no one is interested on my blog but I wanted to put the feeler out here first.

Thanks,

Lisa

Monday Blog Post

2010-01-11T07:15:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had the D.O.M. and could not sleep because your whole body hurt? That was me last night. Yesterday after taking wee one to see Alvin and the Chipmunks and hanging with the pre-teen crowd at the mall which is always so fun because I guess I am no longer cool to hang! It's not like I am wearing mom jeans and Birkenstocks with a poncho around the mall but anyways I remember the age and they will grow out of it! Sorry to my elastic waistband jean wearing friends out there! lol

Anyways after that and we got home I went up to the Gym and have to say I work my Chest and Tri's pretty hard and I hurt today! Trying to build up my upper chest area I have always felt that was a weak area on me and would like to thicken it up get that nice cut on the upper chest!

Actually took almost a week off working out over the Holidays and ate off my regular diet so I could give my body a break and I wanted to do projects in my house. So I guess that is why this week I'm am a little more sore then normal. But I just had to keep reminding myself that breaks are a good thing and I need to recharge the old body sometimes. Must not have done to much damage I only gained a pound over Christmas and New Years.

Here is my workout from last night:

Inclines
fly's
reverse dips
flat bench barbell presses
Tricep push downs
Over the Head triceps with the rope
bunch of Abs and Calves

Hope everyone is doing well,

Lisa T.

Good Morning Everyone

2009-12-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say that the workouts are starting to show signs of changes going on in my body.......4 days a week I hit it, backed off any Cardio until the early spring and hitting the weights, switching my routine up every 4-6 weeks really seems to help also I have learned form over very heavy weight has helped me also. My chest and back are getting thicker and the shoulder are gettin a little meaty!!!! Everytime I am in the gym I picture my competition on the stage and what they would look like and how I want to look.

I have decided on an early show that way if I don't place 1st or 2nd I can take a few weeks and adjust the diet etc. and hit the stage again. I can even imagine my suit on me. Nails done, hair done, no more false eyelashes because my Doctor Cousin hooked me up with Liteese so the lashes are growing long and getting thick! woot woot. Always hated those damn things anyways thought they made my eyes droup.

Anyways know is the time because this ass is not getting any younger and the competition is!

I will pick my date and post it........hopefully some of my Michigan girls will be trying for the same show that would be awesome!

Happy Monday,

Lisa

Just a little humor for the day!

2009-12-16T12:10:00.000-08:00

My R esimay

To hoom it mae cunsern,

I waunt to apply for the job what I

saw in the paper.
I kin Type realee qwik wit one finggar

and do sum a counting.

I think I am good on the fone and I no

I am a pepole person, Pepole realee

seam to reespond too me well. Certain

men and all the ladies.

I no my spelling is not too good but find

that I Offen can get a job wit my

persinalety.
My salerery is open so we kin discus

wat you want to pay me and wat you

think that I am werth,

I kin start emeditely. Thank yoo in

advanse fore yore anser.

hopifuly Yore best aplicant so farr.

Sinseerly,

BRYAN nikname Beefy

PS : Because my resimay is a bit short -

below is a pickture of me.

Human Resources 's response:...

Dear Beefy-I mean Bryan ,

It's OK honey, we've got spell check.
See you Monday.

I would hire him!

Lisa

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M.I.A

2009-12-16T10:49:00.000-08:00

I have had so much on my mind this year between, marriage, children, competing I guess I have just needed a break which I will get right after Christmas.......lots of time to think of what is the best and what fears do I cling onto to set me spirit free.....I have always been the go to person for advise but never really shared my own emotions which in turn has not served me well. When you don't let things out they fester until you burst. That is one reason for not competing this year I just did not want the extra stress, I want competing to be like the first time I ever walked out on the stage but better with a bigger sense of self and confidence. I know I can do it for 2010 it is in me just like Krissa, it has always been inside her but it took her to realize it on her own.

I just want to forget the past year and move towards a brighter future, no more resent, holding things in 2010 has got to be better.......possibly it will start off rocky but God has never left my side and will carry when ever I need him, he has proved that to me time and time again.

I have learned this year that people with anxiety can be the strongest people because if you can push through and not let it stop you from your goals who can ever call you weak!

Promise I will be a better blogger,

Lisa

Photographer in Michigan

2009-11-20T08:19:00.000-08:00

Ok - I look at all the photo shoots on Sioux and have seen the work done by many in my own State........If I ever do a Photo Shoot I want it to be like art because that is what I feel the body is, Gods gift our Temple. Being that I have 2 daughters I want them to see their mother in a respectful light i.e. no T and A shots.

Anyways one my oldest and dearest friends Dawn we literally have remained friends since the 10th grade I was in her Wedding whom I must say married the nicest man ever about 14 years ago and let me tell you people he has the eye of an artist when it comes to photo shoots, I have already explained to him that when it comes time for my next Comp. he and only he would shoot me because I trust him and his artistic ability.

Well instead of keeping him all to myself I thought I would share his Website, just to let you know he is well respected......he is a photographer for the Lions and many other Organizations.

So this is his Website for all to check out:

http://www.delrioimages.com

If you are thinking of a great person to shoot you this is your main man!

Lisa T.

Sometimes it is ok to Quit!

2009-11-20T06:20:00.000-08:00

it's ok to Quit....." Motivational Speaker - Veraunda Jackson

1. Quit arguing with people about the same old foolishness! Respect their
position and keep it moving!

2. Quit telling people your secrets when you know they are not going to keep
them! And if you keep telling them, then quit getting mad when they tell your
secrets!

3. Quit trying to pull people on your journey who don't want to travel with you.
Either they believe in you and value you...or they don't!

4. Quit complaining about things you can't and won't change!

5. Quit gossiping about other people! Minding our own business should be a full
time job!

6. Quit blaming each other for things that in the big picture aren't going to
matter three weeks from now! Talk solutions...and then implement them!

7. Quit eating things you know are not good for you! If you can't quit...eat
smaller portions!

8. Quit buying things when we know we can't afford them! If you don't have self
control, then quit going to the stores! Quit charging things, especially when
you don't NEED them!

9. Quit staying in unhealthy relationships! It is not okay for people to
verbally or physically abuse you! So quit lying to yourself! It is not okay to
stay in the marriage for the children! Ask them and they will tell you that they
really would prefer to see you happy and that the misery you and your
spouse/partner are living with is affecting them!

10. Quit letting family members rope you into the drama! -Start telling them you
don't want to hear it! Quit spreading the drama! Quit calling other relatives
and telling them about your cousin or aunt! Go back to #5 minding your own
business should be enough to keep you busy!

11. Quit trying to change people! IT DOESN'T WORK! Quit cussing people out when
you know that they are just being the miserable and jealous people that they
are!

12. Quit the job you hate! Start pursuing your passion. Find the job that fuels
your passion BEFORE you quit!

13. Quit volunteering for things that you aren't getting any personal
fulfillment from anymore! Quit volunteering for things and then failing to
follow through with your commitment!

14. Quit listening to the naysayers! Quit watching the depressing news if you
are going to live in the doom and gloom of it all!

15. Quit making excuses about why you are where you are or why you can't do what
you want to do!

16. Quit waiting on others to give you the answers...and start finding the
answers for yourself! If what you are doing isn't working for you...then quit
it!

17. Quit settling and start making your dreams a reality!- Quit being afraid and
START LIVING YOUR LIFE! CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT! If you want something different than what you have had in the past...you must quit doing what you have done before and DO something different! JUST QUIT IT ..... And START DOING

Inspiration of the day

2009-11-19T14:23:00.000-08:00

I just swiped this photo off another bloggers site (sorry Tawana!)
This is my inspiration of today.........one day people,one day!

Peace,Love and Muscle,

Lisa

Tear drops

2009-11-19T11:01:00.000-08:00

If you have followed by journey since last year you will know that my goal was for a nice booty and legs.........can I just say I was wearing shorts at the Gym today and I swear doing leg extensions (switching off between 21's one week and the other conventional leg extensions) I saw with my own eyes the makings of Tear drops, little old me with true muscle definition in her legs! I really have been switching things up every 4-6 weeks for muscle confusion and it must be working, the body is a wonderful thing if you work on form, add weight every week and keep your mind on your muscle working it to fatigue with proper rest periods before hitting it again your body has no choice but to respond! Another exercise that I have been doing is deep squats they hurt like a mother but I leave the Gym really feeling like I have done something! People we are talking deep squats, it hurts so good! Sorry I guess I am a little sick because I like the burn, makes me feel like I am really working it!

Another thing like today doing the deep squats was my mind was on my competition this might sound horrible but I kept thinking in my mind F. so and so I am running after you F. you. hey people if it works to keep you motivated do whatcha gotta do.

Anyways I found a picture on my dads facebook so I thought I would post for the mom's out in the World that think after you have a child you can never have your body back........you can if you really want it back.

Putting a feeler out

2009-11-13T16:31:00.000-08:00

OK this might kill me to sell but I am seriously considering selling and want opinions on what price range to ask........please note this suit I hand did with 2000 stones! Still think I am a little high from the glue!

Lisa

Lisa's Revaluation

2009-11-11T06:37:00.000-08:00

OK yesterday I was at the Gym and had a revaluation......Lisa you need to go back to the basics of weight training and really focus on your form! Yes I must leave my heavy weights and go lighter but form people is everything, I want to really feel the muscle working that I am engaging. Yesterday was Chest and I really want to build up my upper chest connecting to my front delts so I did incline flies with dumbbells with the correct form light weight and you know what it must have worked because today I would like to die! Full out inclines elbows with a slight bend, next week I will add another 5lbs. Also I did tri's which a friend of mine gave me a different exercise that works both the tri's and the upper chest so you really get that squeeze when you get to the chest part.......I want that nice cut right down the center of my chest.

Anyways my workout was a short one, back to killing it in an hour, faster reps shorter rest periods....must always keep my muscle confused kind of like myself always just a tad bit confused! LOL

Have a great day everyone,
Love, Peace and Muscle

Lisa

The Arnold

2009-11-09T06:30:00.000-08:00

Putting a feeler out into the Universe to the girls who have done the Arnold........worth doing or not? It is not a National Qualifier but something to strive for. Not completely sure if worth my time and efforts. If anyone has an opinion please post a comment. I have to say last year watching from home and seeing the updates I did get a little bit of that competitive spirit in me, like I wanted to be on that stage.

So for the girls who have done the show what did you think? Cattle call or an exciting time on stage with all the eyes watching and seeing the great competition, the girls who will eventually go onto Nationals and what it takes at that level?

Lisa

Strength

2009-11-02T06:34:00.000-08:00

I had to do something very hard the other day and wanted to do this completely on my own a test you could say to myself......had many offers of help but knew that if I could muster up the courage to do want needed to be done just maybe I had more inner strength then I have given myself credit for in a long time! You know what? I do and I handled a tuff situation on my own, people can tell me anything they want but deep down at the core of my being I have a strength that can not be taken away. It felt good in the knowing that when bad things happen I will always be able to reach inside myself and find what God has given me, he will give me as much as I can handle. I am in control over my being that is partly why I still crave competing. That challenge that most could never do or even dream possible of doing even though the want is inside of them. Like the body our minds and spirits are always growing, granted we have many curve balls along the way but how do you grow if you are not tested. Everyday is a gift people not to be taken for granted.

The other day at the Gym I noticed someone who had most likely been in a horrific car accident and could barely lift up his head see to me that is strength otherwise he would not be fighting the good fight, he was trying even though his body was limited to a wheelchair his spirit was still in inside wanting to shine through and fight. So as I do my chin ups and push the heavy weights how can I not feel blessed because my body is working and I know I have the strength to get through things on my own........I don't have to do things on my own but without a support system I could make it!

C. you are so right in your blogs I wish everyone would read them, you have a God given talent of writing and I do not understand how you do it but it touches me every time I read one of your posts. So thank you for opening up your Blog once again for all to read. If you do not know who I am speaking of look up Cynthia Herndon. She may not know it yet but she has the gift of the written word!

Peace, love and muscle

Lisa T.

Intervention

2009-10-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

I am posted this because maybe someone else has gone through the same thing. I have a friend whom I am close to that when we went for tea after a workout really laid into me....on one hand I am blessed that I have someone who cares enough to feel free to speak what she feels is the truth on the other hand it was hard for me to hear. See I keep strict about what I eat except the weekends and with all the stress the has surrounded my life in the past year I dropped down to 108lbs recently and my friend says I can not see what others do. I promised I would gain the weight back and I promise everyone I really do eat. My starting goal is 5 pounds and another 5 or more for the Winter. She actually cried because she said she was so worried about me. By the way I am back up to 111 I have doubled my carbs and have tried to lighten up on what I eat. I know in the back of my mind that alot of what she said is the truth.......what can you control in your life if everything else seems to be falling apart! Do you understand what I mean (Food)

Some people eat for comfort when stressed I have to force myself when stressed, this year has been nothing but a bad year all the way around but I try to remember everyday is a gift from God and through the rough patches brings the sun.

This past week I was attacked literally by a dog......literally he wanted to kill me I have puncher wounds in my head, tricep and quad and have this tingling in my fingers that won't go away! Had to have a Tetanus Shot along with Antibiotics here is the kicker my own 8 year old English Setter was the culprit he was out to kill me, my little one saw everything and we both went into shock, she will tell you she remembers nothing it is her way of protecting herself from a bad memory. We just went through the same thing 2 months ago putting an animal down because he turned on the wee one. I just keep thinking to myself what if it was her and not me instead of getting the back of my head he got her face! The Husband thinks the spirit of the other dog has jumped into the setter's body because he is mad at us for putting him down! Little crazy but when you have had a dog so long it is just so hard to believe they could turn into Cujo! My oldest thinks we must be meant for gerbil's or a cat!!!

Anyways 2010 has to be a better year......I will still train like I am an athlete and eat like one also! My goal is not to look way to small, never has that been my goal my goal honestly this year was 120 pounds of pure muscle. So as I promised my friend I WILL gain the weight in a healthy manner.

Take care all,

Lisa T.

Sunday after the O. Post

2009-09-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

Congrats. to Michigan's first ever Ms. Figure O.! I can tell you that I have seen Nicole backstage at the State level events helping her clients and she have the this presence about her plus she is so pretty naturally!

Thought all the girls looked wonderful, some I did not understand the placings but not being a judge it is hard from just pictures to see exactly what set one girl apart from the other!

I am just hoping next year this time a good friend of mine that spent her growing up years in Michigan will grace the stage and whoop some ass! Know that would make me proud.

Have a great Sunday everyone,

Lisa

Oh and still doing DC

2009-09-23T13:10:00.001-07:00

Still doing DC Training.......shocking my muscles on shoulders and back and booty and every other part on me, just thought I would share that with Vic since I have not posted what I have been doing inside the Gym!

Lisa

It's not over till it's over!

2009-09-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

Great motto from a great person.........since I see some changes and I will be fresh
next year maybe I shall take that advise and train and lift this booty till it is rock solid and kill it at my next show! feeling spunky and half sane today. lol

Keep getting noticed for my shoulders and back and can actually see improvement in the hamstrings, don't ask about calves ain't happening! But you know what I will be like Arnold and keep on training and trying.

Keep pressing on ladies we can achieve all we want if we try hard enough, would it not be great to compete all together knowing we did our best. I def. see potential in everyone I come across on my blog Krissa, Cynthia, Abby, Becca you guys are so determined......so you have a couple of bad days who the heck cares, you guys NEVER give up and that is inspiring!

Peace, Love and Muscle

Lisa

No Nationals for me

2009-09-16T13:49:00.001-07:00

Anyone with Show suggestions towards the end of the year before the last Nationals please let me know! Or maybe I should just wait until next year when I have one more year to gain lean muscle mass, so confusing......I am starting to get a bug up my ass at the end of the year to compete. Really had no MoJo before this but somehow my year feels weird without even one show under my belt! Oh Well I will keep on doing my thing in the Gym and picturing the most beautiful suit ever worn on stage to get me through until next year! One more year just gets me closer to my goals anyways so maybe I already have an answer for myself!

Maybe I did say 2009 was my year.....I probably said that in 2008 also but 2010 watch out bitches here she comes! just teasing about the bitches part.

Anyways I am taking tonight off and trying to see if I can get a killer leg or chest/tri's workout in tommorow morning we shall see one workout, one day at a time!

Peace, Love and Muscle

Lisa T.

Hey C. any Pro/Am show for 2010? Just a thought if you know what I'm saying!!! That would be killer fun.

R.I.P.

2009-09-15T19:07:00.001-07:00

Rest in peace my little buddy Geronimo as hard as it was to make the decision tonight we have sent him back to God to drink, eat and have as many scooby snacks as he can have! My Keeley would like her mama to drive in the morning to Heaven to see him......very hard to explain that our doggy will not be coming home but we will see him again again one day playing in a field by a stream drinking as much as he wants, eating scooby snacks and feeling wonderful. He will forever be loved but I could not keep a dog that ever hurt mine or anyone Else's child or show extreme food and water aggression with my other dog let alone add in his kidney and bladder problems that would never be cured. He just seemed to always feel horrible!

I spent most of the afternoon laying with him and telling him I was so sorry and that I would miss him, my other dog must sense the loss because he has been howling and whining all night. I swear dogs have a six sense.

Anyways sorry for all my doggy lovers for the sad post I just needed to get it off my chest because even though I know I did right a little part of me feels guilty.

I will post later about my workouts and how that is going!

As always my fellow bloggers take care!

Lisa T.

Lat Girls first post in weeks

2009-09-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

I feel like I have been gone forever from Blogger World in the last few weeks because of Vacation to Florida to see the In-Laws and take my children to Disney
which hopefully will give them lasting memories, it was nice get away but was happy to come home....no place like home. And my dogs were very happy to be out of the Kennel.

Once home however my boxer growled and ripped open the lower lid of my 4 year olds eye just missing her eyeball I don't think he bit her but got her with a very sharp claw but none the less I did hear him growl and have seen him be aggressive before with my other dog so we have made the hard decision to return him to the rescue that we got him from which for me and the kids will be very hard but I have got to do the right thing for the family and other kids that may come over to our home. I think he already feels something is coming because he has been very detached since the bite. Thank God my baby will be alright, when this happened I was surprised how calm and collected I became taking over the situation and rushing her to the hospital and then having to transfer her to a Children's Hospital with a plastic surgeon on site. Basically they had to put a silicone tube through the lower lid down through the noise. But she was running and playing a few hours after the surgery! I love my little girl for being such a trouper and so strong......nothing can stop her, nothing! I have seen this child work so hard many times at mastering things at a young age with such determination it inspires me!

My only problem with my vacation was letting go and just not worry about training and diet, 9 days worked out 3 days.......but honestly I needed that break in the routine and even if I didn't eat exactly the way I would at home I found many substitutions that were accommodating, the weird part is now that I am home people keep asking if I have a show coming up and my answer is no, only one I would consider is a National Show towards the end of the year still have booty and legs to work on. but I have seen improvements in those areas which is pretty damn cool. So thanks Vic. for the DC Training info.

Anyways I just wanted to blog a little today to say I am still around and hope the girls who are prepping for shows are rocking it hardcore, when I compete again I want to compete with the best. And I've seen what that is and I still have allot of work to do!

Peace, Love and Muscle,

Lisa T.

Shoulder day Saturday!

2009-08-15T12:09:00.001-07:00

I posted this picture because I kind of like the girl in the middles suit! Love looking at all the bling what can I say.

My favorite 2 parts this morning shoulders and abs and both got hammered in a good way today! Gave myself plenty of time today so I could get everything in allowing for chatter time also, yes sometimes my mouth also gets a work out, when you have been training at the same Gym for years you tend to get to know people, day crowd, afternoon crowd, night crowd I know them all that is the regulars!

Had to work extra hard so I can refeed later hopefully it will all go to my shoulders! I like to hit shoulders from all angles and have a slightly different approach for growth.......just kill them until they get big and meaty. No DC Training today on the Shoulders, but for everything else straight up DC baby!

I have to say also I am so stoked that a trainer a my gym got her crossfit Certification so they are going to start a class! I have wanted to try Crossfit for the last 2 years and no one around does it! I already told I would be signing up for the class which I think made her kindof nervous! She actually wants to compete but is lacking that deep go for it balls out fire that you need to accomplish it. Just my two cents on her.

Anyways I just wants to see if crossfit will kick me in the butt and drop me! Having a feeling it will just from the Video's that I have seen! Sick but I can't wait.

Anyways should I say what my refeed will be today? think I will go for deep dish double cheese and pepperoni from Old Chicago with a side of Cookies! Yummy

Have a great Saturday everyone,

Lisa T.

Thursdays Post

2009-08-06T16:28:00.001-07:00

Today I promised myself I would be up before the kids for some good old fashioned mom time......just moments of quiet can be so nice and reflect on the day to come and what is was I wanted to accomplish!

Hit the Gym with my little one in tow around 11:00AM.....had my focus, mojo and Ipod was actually charged! Anyways I have been trying to find as much info on DC Training as possible, so my workout for today was a killer on the legs! I am sooooooo sore tonight.

My workout went like this:

Leg Press Machine 10 plates total for 10 set of 10 reps barely any rest between sets!

Sissy squats 10 reps x 10 sets went straight to the calf machine for 10 and hopped make and forth until by the 10 rep of the sissy squat I was literally falling on my butt from pain........

Also did stiff leg dumbbell sets 10 reps x 10 sets barely any rest on those also

* finished off the legs with walking lunges around the track just for that extra little bit off pain.

p.s. just for kicks I added 15 upside down push ups on the wall......

Anyways I know I have alot to learn but I'll get it, just need to do more research of recovery time and training Dogg Crapp Style!

Peace, love and Muscle,

Lisa

Blog Suggestion

2009-08-04T18:55:00.000-07:00

I have a suggestion for a great blogger with so much information.......just check him out!

http://vicrd.blogspot.com/

Calling out Vic

2009-08-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

OK this is not Vic. just as an F.Y.I.

Just wanted to say that I started my Dog Crapp Training and I'm sore......so thank you Vic for Suggesting DC! Lol

So since I have started this different Program I think I may have promised to stay honest.....anyways today I did chest with Tri's my upper body wants to crawl its way into bed and take the longest nap ever! By the tenth rep of the tenth set I thought I would die.....but I did it...woot woot

So whatcha got Vic! I will stay honest if you do!

Lat Girl

Just a thought

2009-07-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Maybe my next plan will be DC Training.....anyone with thoughts on this workout!
Dogg Crapp Training yeah baby thats what I'm talking about!

Lisa

Short Post

2009-07-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

OK must come up with a new plan! Think I am getting close.......going old school
Volume Training for 4-6 weeks, just might takes some before and after shots this weekend, have not taken in along time and I need to see how my legs look outside of a 3 way mirror! Caps are coming in nice along with the back!

Taking tonight off from training and have a plan for Saturday and Sunday, I find I do much better when I have it already in my head what I will be doing........got to get that mind/muscle connection going!

Anyways just want to leave you all with a little saying....sorry if it sounds preachy!

expect God to show you something new today. Some people resist change, but God created us to need variety in our life. If we do the same things over and over, we get burned out on it. God will keep our lives exciting if we seek him everyday.

Look for new ways of doing things. If you have been working the same job for thirty years (or working out the same way and eating the same) find a new path while you get to your destination. Do something to invite newness into your life so you can discover a new and better path!

Peace, Love and Muscle,

Lisa T. (Lat Girl)

Soaring like the Eagles

2009-07-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

I never realized when I came up with the my Title for my blog that it would mean more to me then just Fitness. Maybe 2009 was meant to be a year of discovering myself......I've bean doing much reading not just on the physical muscle front but on Building Spiritual Muscle also. I want to become the person who lets go of the past regrets, lives in the present, and never gives up on a fabulous future! My interest is still inside of me for competing.......I can feel it deep down, I can not say when, or how I will do it but one thing I'm slowly learning about myself is that I have never been a person who gives up easy, I said one day, just one time I would make it to a National Show........maybe it won't be a first place but just the satisfaction of knowing I did it would count the most. But competing has to be just an extension of who I am, a good wife, mother, friend, someone who truly chooses everyday when I roll out of bed that today is my day and I can make the choice to make it great, no one can decide that for me, negativity will bounce right off of me and I will not internalize anyone else's problems as my own. I will remember that God has a plan for me and that plan was not meant to be locked in a self inflicted cage of doubt but to soar like an eagle. Anyways I guess enough of that talk and bit on my fitness front!

I just want to say I am still working out lifting as heavy as I can and eating healthy, just have to push up the calorie intake, sorry to say I've dropped 10 pounds in the last couple of month not trying. Super charged up metabolism I guess. Another thing I have found really helping with a stress is kick boxing and sparing with a heavy bag, nothing like it........beating the crap out of something to relieve stress makes you so feel good afterward, for me it's Cardio but fun! Not having to stand on a boring treadmill is awesome for me because I think I must be ADD and just can not stand in one spot that long! really I think I should have taken it up years ago, might I add that I can really feel it in the hip flexors with all that kicking of the heavy bag! My Hugo Riveria Book I was doing is completed, just can not believe 21 weeks have past......must find a different plan so I can shake things ups a bit and confuse my muscles once again so they will grow! First start taking in more calories! I see that as a good plan to start with and dig deep for the perfect workout to suit my ectomorph frame that gives me rest and recovery time so I can one day soar like those eagles onto the National Stage.

Hope all is well and Congrats to Jessica and Jody I understand they had a little bundle of joy today.

Take care,

Lisa T.

Just a random post

2009-07-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

OK since I learned so much from Cynthia last week I think I will put it to good use tonight at the Gym..........I should mention Abby on chest also (I'm so weak) compared to these two girls! tonight will be Chest and Tri's all out pushing to my max! Only way I'm going to go from scrawny to National level competitor! Don't care if I have to wait another year just for training and eating up, who ever said I absolutely had to make it this year? OK maybe me but my mindset has changed.......let the body do the talking and once it's ready for the stage watch out I will have the mind, body and spirit to grace that stage one day!

I posted this picture of Nancy because I love all the bling on her suit! very eye catching. Maybe one day I will have full caps and a nice quad sweep.......one workout at a time! Got to keep it real a body like that doesn't happen over night takes years of patiences and hard work for that look!

Lat Girl

Best week ever with IFBB Pro Cynthia Herndon

2009-06-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

I just had the best week ever! What a true honor to be able to hang out with 2 amazing women....Cynthia and Abby, thank you so much for your kindness and letting me stay with you and learn sooooo much from both of you!

Last Wednesday I drove and meet Cynthia IFBB Pro on home town turf, shopped, worked out stayed at her parents house......it all worked out so beautifully for the week because my parents had already made arrangements to take my children for the week! Can I say by the way Cynthia I have no doubt in my own mind that she could do anything in this world she ever wanted to do! And that means making it too the big "O"!

Thursday we got around and drove over to Abby's home and what a great person she is, totally has all her priorities in line, God, Family, Fun so refreshing to be around such positive strong women! After a little eating and chatting we headed over to Abby's Gym were she is much loved you can tell! Can I just say these 2 girls are strong I mean strong, I'm still sore from chest day! After that Abby showed us her collection of Oxygen Mags. starting back from 1998 every issue she has! Not only does she participate in the sport she really enjoys every aspect of it!

Friday Cynthia and I drove back to my house after working out one last time with Abby we heaeded back to my town and I had a blast showing her around a bit and watching some great fireworks! Got up Saturday and I actually got to take her to my Gym, which might I add the one of the workers is still amazed at her strength on a Dead Lift, she was trying to correct my form......I need lots of practice in that area and have to learn to check my ego at the door until I can get it right! She had to leave from the Gym because she is going to do some great volunteer work.....again I can not stress enough of what a kind, beautiful person she is inside and out and if you have not signed up to be apart of VisionQuester 111
you are truly missing out on great information, the girl could totally write a book if she wanted too! And the thing about her is she just keeps things real, you have high days in this sport and you have low days! Just a real person with a Pro Card spreading all her knowledge of the sport!

Anyways I just wanted to express my true appreciation for having a wonderful chance to meet some amazing women......and to Kim who drove an hour over to Abby's Gym reach for the Stars and I wish you the best of luck in your competition!

Ending this post I almost want to cry because I feel like people come into your life at the correct time! And for me for what I have been going through in the last couple of months I just feel like this was just the thing I needed for my PMA to come back! If you are around Positive, strong people it is contagious

Love, peace and muscle,

Lisa

P.S. Cynthia I totally just swiped that picture from your sight, I hope that is OK!

Excited

2009-06-16T11:06:00.001-07:00

See this picture above......I am so excited to say I will have the great honor of working out with IFBB Pro Cynthia Herndon and Abby next week! Little nervous that she will absolutely kick my booty in the gym but I will do my best to keep up at her pace! I'm really stoked about this opportunity not only is she a personal trainer (she has her certification) anyhoo she has an incredible eye for what area's to focus on and also an incredible person. One of the best Pro's around in my book!

On another note I have been back in the Gym and have found it to be my meditation seems to free my mind from racing thoughts. I'm currently reading a book by Lucinda Bassett, the Title of the book is Panic to Power.......I swear from the first chapter I could relate back to my own childhood just by her own stories. I think I've lived with anxiety my entire life but in the book it teaches you how to change the way your thinking and put a stop to worry, guilt, racing thoughts. highly recommend this book to anyone.

Below I will write a poem from one of the first chapters:

Fear is conquered by action.
When we challenge our fears, we defeat them.
When we grapple with our difficulties,
They lose their hold upon us.
When we dare to face the
Things which scare us,
We open the door to freedom.

Author Unknown.

Peace and love,

Lisa T. (Lat Girl)

Hugo Rivera as a young boy!

2009-05-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

I wanted to show a picture of Hugo Rivera as a young boy!

Below would be Hugo Rivera as fit, Strong man that he has become......no longer the overweight child in the first picture above. See even though I have never met this man he is helping me build some steller legs with the help of his Hardgainers Bodybuilding Handbook........this book breaks down your workouts, nutrition and if you actually follow his plan it will shows results! How many times have you started a program and never completed it? I told myself that when I bought this book I would complete what I started.......hell what is 21 weeks when you have been training for 4years and not seen the results that you really wanted. Talk to a very successful person and they will tell you it did not happen overnight and they had a plan and a certain drive..........anyways should the 21 weeks go by and I don't get my desired results I either did not give it my all or my plan will change and I will search out something else! My point here people is you must stick with what ever YOUR plan may be! So no results in 2 weeks no biggy, Rome was not built in a day or even 2 weeks, it took time and the body needs time also to respond to a new plan, see things out and the results will indeed come maybe not as fast as you would like but they will come through dedication and drive.

Anyhoo this is what I did last night at the Gym with a little help from my book that I carry with me at all times on leg day!

Hybrid Phase: Volume/Strength Training Weeks 16-18
Thighs/Hamstrings/Calves

Modified Compound Superset #1
Squats (Medium Stance) Reps 8,6,4...........Sets 3.........90 second rest
Lying Leg Curls Reps 8,6,4...........Sets 3.........90 second rest

Superset 2
Quadriceps Leg Press Reps 8,6,4...........Sets 3.........90 second rest
Barbell Stiff-legged Deadlift Reps 8,6,4...........Sets 3.........90 second rest

Superset 3
Standing Calf Raises Reps 10,8,6..........Sets 3.........no rest
Lying Leg Raises Reps 10,8,6..........Sets 3.........60 seconds

I would brag about the weight I was pushing last night but I can't..........taking my much needed time away from the Gym has lost me some of my strength, it's ok though I don't have to kill it everytime, giving youself slack and just doing it sometimes is all you have to do!

Have a great day,

Lisa T.

Morning Motivator for the VisionQuester

2009-05-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

Go out and seize the day!

Lat Girl will post her workout later!

Yeah Muscle in the city girls!!!!

2009-05-16T09:48:00.001-07:00

They should be so proud! And look how beautiful they look on camera!

Just had to post this one

Nancy Georges

2009-05-13T19:35:00.001-07:00

Every Month I get an email newsletter from Nancy Georges and thought this was good enough to share!

Fitness Tip Of The Month

PMA- Positive Mental Attitude

Last month we talked about brain food and what you are feeding your brain. It is sort of like what you feed your body, if crap goes in, crap is going to come out. So most likely you have started feeding your brain more positive things to where PMA becomes an increasingly easier state of mind for you. It starts out difficult, I know, but the first step is to realize what is in your life that is dragging you down. What feels heavy to you? Those are the things you want to slowly extract from your life. As you become lighter and lighter, PMA becomes a natural state of mind.

It's no secret that I am a huge fan of having fun. I have seen one too many competitor taking themselves way to seriously. Believe me, I have my moments. My food is like the holy grail, and if I am 2 seconds off on my food it is like a catastrophe has just struck. What we would all do well to do is to lighten up. Remember whatever journey you are on, it is for the main purpose of having fun. Once you stop having fun, in my opinion, you should stop whatever you are doing. Having fun is a priority in my life. That does not mean I sacrifice hard work, discipline, proper training, and diet, but it does mean that I relax into it, enjoy it and let go.

PMA is also positive expectation, that if you are doing the work, the fruits of your labor will surely come. There is no question in your mind, no exception, and no alternative. We need to distinguish between determination and having heavy energy ourselves, being way to rigid in what we want and how long it takes to get there. Train with discipline, have fun and you will be in great shape and people will wonder how it was so easy. What's your secret they say. PMA!

Have a wonderful month.

Tuesday Post

2009-05-12T20:18:00.000-07:00

What can you say other then this women looks amazing! I believe she is in the newest Oxygen Magazine coverage of the Arnold........What in Gods name do have do too look like that beside literally work your ass off and eat so clean, she had not touch a slice of pizza in month's..........either that or have the best genes ever!

Anyhoo I wanted to say that last night was the first night that I have stepped foot in my Gym in 3 weeks...........honestly was so nervous about the questions I would get about why the no showings, thank God my good friend at the Gym was with me and we just walked and talked which felt so good almost therapeutic if that makes sense.

I have made some decisions in the past couple of days.......first I will not commit to a competition date for this year, when the time is right I will feel it in my soul! At the moment the pressure seems so great and all I want is too do is kill it in the Gym and enjoy new challenges in my workouts and being my diet is good I feel that God will lead me in the right direction whether it is competing or on too a
new endeavor!

Tonight I did go back for some shoulder work and have lost some strength but am sure that will return but it felt so good almost like being at my second home, sounds stupid but I forgot all about the anxiety and my depression seems to be lifted when working out!

Also I have made the decision that I will only work at most 3 days straight one day upper, one day cardio, next day legs and off (completely off) and then 2 on........total of 5 days a week unless I want to take a simple bike ride or a walk with the little one.........my body has been telling me for so long to slow it down and I have not listened, so that must stop. I need to learn that no one not even me how much I want something must have limits for the desire for perfection (does it really exists anyways) competition is subjective, I can tell you without a doubt that I have seen girls walk away so discouraged they never go after it again, I don't quit maybe even when I should.

Anyways we are all beautiful in our own ways and perfection is in the eye of the beholder.......staying healthy is the most important thing we can do, most of us have family's that need and love us just for who we are!

Love , peace and muscle

Lisa T.

I think I'm being sabotaged

2009-05-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

The husband is trying to kill me I swear, already feeling weak and he orders all the crap food possible........have not touched it yet but it's calling my name and when you haven't worked out in weeks you know actually the place that fat will go! Straight to my ASS! I will remain strong and eat my rice and talipia!!!! wish me luck! Grrrrr. I think he is started to like my butt a little thicker!

Lisa

MIA

2009-05-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

First I would like to say that I have missed my Blogger Community! My reasons for being MIA have to do woth Internal issue's that I thought would actually never happen to me..........overwhelming anxiety and depresion in which I could not even get out of bed or stop crying! I thought for so long that my issues where with my body and my immune system being shot to shit! Anyways I am seeking therapy and and hollistic means of help along with conventional meds.

I really think I need to delve into my soul and figure this out with prayer and support I will be just fine!

Love and Peace,

Lisa Theisen

Saturday night post

2009-04-04T16:09:00.000-07:00

I have feel like I have been totally MIA this week from writing and reading some of my favorite blogs! I have been around but my access to the Internet has been limited this week, I have competition for the Computer with my 12 year old!

Anyways I have also been doing some thinking and research on Hormones and why mine seems so out of whack. Did have my Gyno. check the levels and all he came back with was I'm not going through the change.......glad to hear that but would still like more answers, most of my family and friends would say my hormones are off because of the training and body fat level, which in all honesty probably does play a part in the equation to the lack of T.O.M.

I did tell the Doctor by Monday I would decide if I wanted to try a low dosage of Birth Control.....sometimes having that little extra boost of hormones in your systems will give you more energy and regulate your cycle. I wish I could find the Blog or Article that Pauline Nordin did on this topic, I remember her also saying that she was taking Oral Contraceptive because she wanted to protect her Bone Density since she was not getting T.O.M either. Yes working out is part vanity for me but it is also to take care of the one and only body that God has given me to take care!

Another test that I asked my Doctor for is a Ferritin test. Not just your standard Iron test more in depth.......this test was recommended by a good friend that last year experienced extreme fatigue, foggy head syndrome, muscle and joint pain, hair loss, ect. anyways her Iron test came back in the normal range but her Ferritin levels fell below 4!

I guess what I am saying in this post is part of my figuring things out this year is not just about the outside but more important the inside......if things don't feel just right search for the answers, why go around feeling less then 100%.

On the workout front I have been giving myself more recovery time.....no more 5 days straight with 1 off and back at it. The last couple of weeks it has been scaled back and honestly I think it has been working better for me.

This is my workouts last week:
Sunday - Legs/Abs/Cardio (25 minutes)
Monday - off
Tuesday -Chest/Back/Cardio (25 minutes)
Wednesday - off
Thursday - Legs/Abs
Friday - Cardio (1/2 elipticle, 1/2 walking on the track)
Saturday - Shoulders/Abs

Hope everyone had a great productive week!

Lisa

Below I have inserted information on lowered ferritin levels:

Lowered ferritin levels:

If ferritin is low there is a risk for lack in iron which could lead to anemia. Low ferritin levels (<50 ng/mL) have been associated with symptoms of restless legs syndrome even in the absence of anemia.[6]

In the setting of anemia, serum ferritin is the most sensitive lab test for iron deficiency anemia.[7]

In a certain study in Paris, France, the level of iron in the blood (measured by ordering a ferritin serum test) has been connected to ADHD in children. Specifically, the lower the iron level, the more severe the ADHD symptoms.[8]

High risk groups for increased likelihood of iron deficiency are:

Babies given cows’ milk instead of breast milk or iron fortified formula. Cow and goats milk are very low sources of iron and the iron is poorly absorbed. Breast milk is a good source of bioavailable iron, assuming the mother has adequate iron stores.
Embryos in formation. Low maternal iron may result in intrauterine growth retardation, low birth weight, increased infant mortality, and increased maternal complications and mortality.
Children 1-4 years old are at risk because of rapid growth unless iron fortified food or supplements are given.

Iron deficiency early in childhood can have long-term effects on mental development that may be irreversible. Iron deficiency is not easy to detect without a blood test. Most babies, particularly those who are premature or have low birth weight, need an iron supplement. Give as an iron fortified formula or as a separate liquid supplement to breastfed babies.

Teenagers are at risk because of rapid growth rates, and poor eating habits.
Menstruating women, especially those who have heavy periods. Menstrual bleeding is one of the most common causes of low iron. Such women require twice as much iron as do men. Thirty five-fifty percent of young otherwise healthy women have some degree of iron deficiency. More so in pregnancy.
Women using an IUD (because they generally have heavier periods)
Pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women
Women with more than one child
People who repeatedly crash diet
Vegetarians, (since animal products contain the most usable forms of iron.)
Athletes in training, as they may have exercise induced iron loss, especially with endurance sports and body building
People with kidney failure
People with worm infestation, or chronic parasites
Low income earners
The elderly have both decreased intake and absorption
Regular blood donors. Each 500ml of donated blood costs 200-250mg of iron.
People with conditions that predispose them to bleeding, such as gum disease or stomach ulcers, polyps or cancers of the bowel
Those with gastrointestinal disorders such as low or absent stomach acid, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease, partial removal of the intestines
People taking aspirin as a regular medication
Those with low thyroid functioning
All of those at high risk should take some form of daily iron supplement, and focus on eating iron rich foods, as listed later. The iron can be part of a multivitamin mineral supplement. Women who are not menstruating and men should not supplement iron unless they have a known problem or are at high risk for deficiency.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF IRON DEFICIENCY

With all the possible consequences from iron deficiency, you can see the extraordinary impact of low iron and why this is such an important topic. An iron deficient person would not have all of these symptoms, but some constellation of them. With 5 or more, consider iron problems.

Depression
Fatigue
Listlessness, weakness, decreased work productivity
Impaired learning and cognitive function
ADD and ADHD type behavioral disturbances
Developmental delay in infants and young children
Poor memory
Decreased attention span and increased distractibility
Impaired reactivity and coordination
Irritability
Dizziness
Appetite loss
Cravings for non foods such as ice, dirt or clay
Constipation
Difficulty swallowing (because low iron may cause a thin membrane to grow across the esophagus)
Joint soreness
Night time leg cramps
Asthma
Sores on skin, or itching
Poor wound healing
Can cause excessive menstrual bleeding
Hair loss (LOW IRON IS A FREQUENTLY OVERLOOKED CAUSE OF HAIR LOSS)
Headaches
Sore or burning tongue
Soreness in corners of the mouth
Brittle, flat, or spoon shaped nails
Longitudinal ridges on nails
Heart palpitations on exertion
Shortness of breath
Cold extremities, with decreased resistance to cold and poor regulation of body temperature
Tendency to recurrent infections
Chronic bladder infections
Anemia (hypo chromic, microcytic) paleness, weakness, drowsiness, fatigue
Numbness & tingling
Night sweats
Fragile bones
Growth impairment in children
Eye soreness
Vague gastrointestinal symptoms: belching, gas, nausea
Vitiligo (light blotches on the skin)
Swelling in the ankles
Bluish tint to the whites of the eyes
Visual disturbances
Papilledema (swelling inside the eye)
Enhanced heavy metal absorption and risk for toxicity. Those with low iron will have an increased GI absorption of metals which is not specific for iron, so will absorb more lead, cobalt, cadmium, mercury. High blood levels of lead are more common in children with low iron.

Novice Show Pictures

2009-03-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the Novice Bodybuilding, figure, fitness and bikini Pre-Judge show in my area and had a great time with my friend Carolyn who had never been to a show before......the smell of ProTan in the air, buldging man muscles galore and everyone carrying coolers full of chicken breast and broccoli was like a whole different World for my friend! Over heard the guy sitting in back of us calling a friend to bring him in an extra chicken breast because it was time to eat which gave us both a little chuckle........only at a bodybuilding show do you hear that! Most places you hear a guy asking for his buddy to grab an extra beer before he comes back to his seat! Anyways after the show Carolyn said about the Bodybuilding portion that it was like watching live sculpture on the stage! She's already making plans to drag some other girls to the next show in the area.

After the show we went and had a nice naughty meal at Old Chicago and then went to the Gym so we could work off the damage.........man I thought my stomach was going to explode once I mixed in a Protein Shake after my workout.

Anyways I took pictures today and wanted to share:

bodybuilding

Bodybuilding

Female Bodybuilding

Masters Class

Bikini

Bikini

Bikini

Bikini

Medium Class

Medium Class

Short Class

Short Class (#9 Overall Winner)

Have a great weekend,

Lisa T.

Thursday Post

2009-03-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

Read online tonight that playing Ping-Pong was a better Cardio workout then walking.....so I thought I would post a video that sums up how I feel about that!

Excessive Ping Pong Celebration @ Yahoo! Video

Have a great night,

Lisa

Tuesday Post

2009-03-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I went to my Doctors office to get the results of my blood tests that I took last week....just been feeling very tired and run down in the last month so I wanted the Doctor to check my thyroid, amongst other things and see what the B12 levels were in my body. What I found out was that the Thyroid and all others test came back normal except the B12? Now of course I thought for sure the Doc. would tell me the level was very low, nope she said mine was way over the normal levels in the body and that I need to cut out some supplements before I did any Liver Damage! So if anyone wants some Ultra 40's let me know being that they are chuck full of B12 I guess I better not take them......grrrr!

Also another thing today was that my Blood Pressure which is typically low was really low 80 over 60, I've been tired all day and had a headache so perhaps it stems from that. I did of course go online and check some of the causes of low Blood pressure and one of the causes can be dehydration which is completely possible with me being that I'm not always the best at making sure I keep myself properly hydrated. One more thing is I really want salt today.......I just want to lick the salt of some chips! Very weird

Thought I post an article regarding blood pressure:

Low Blood Pressure: How Low Is Too Low?
Understanding low blood pressure
Usually, low blood pressure is a good thing -- even if it doesn’t sound like it. Just because a standard measurement of blood pressure is 120 over 80 doesn’t mean that blood pressure that is lower than that is going to cause you any problems. However, there are times when low blood pressure can be too low.

I’m Heart Healthy Henry and I’m going to go over the ins and outs of low blood pressure with you -- explaining how low is too low and what can cause low blood pressure.

How Low Is Too Low?
If your blood pressure is less than 100 over 60, you may begin to experience the symptoms of low blood pressure. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as dizziness or fainting, you might want to check your blood pressure with your doctor.

What Causes Low Blood Pressure?
There are a number of conditions that can cause low blood pressure, the most obvious being a severe loss of blood. However, a loss of blood is not the only thing that contributes to low blood pressure.

Low blood pressure can also be caused by certain conditions such as parathyroid disease, dehydration, heart attack, heart failure and sepsis. It can also be caused by certain medications so if you are experiencing low blood pressure, check with your doctor to see if any of the medications you are taking may be causing it.

Treatment
Treatment for low blood pressure will depend on the cause of the condition. For example, treatment for low blood pressure due to dehydration would include re-hydrating the body and treatment due to medication may include a change in prescriptions. When treating low blood pressure, the source of the problem is always isolated and the source, rather than the symptom, is treated.

The best way to treat low blood pressure is to prevent it to begin with. Eating healthy, exercising properly and taking a total health dietary supplement like the one available at this website are great steps towards preventing the onset of low blood pressure.

Count Your Blessings
If you’ve been diagnosed with low blood pressure, you’re better off than being diagnosed with high blood pressure. Low blood pressure is associated with fewer complications than high blood pressure and in some instances it can be easier to treat.

Monday Post

2009-03-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

Ok I'm not working out today because I think I have full body D.O.M.! Saturday I hit the Shoulders really hard and added in about 60 pullups........note I didn't bust those out in the same set! 6 sets 10 reps a piece. Anyhoo yesterday was Legs and Abs, hoping I hit the legs hard enough that I tore some muscle fibers so I get some growth in these blocks of cheese. I do know that I need to find some new jeans because of the size of my quads and butt......if anyone has a brand that they like please let me know because I went out a couple of weeks ago and came home kindof depressed that I couldn't find any that fit right.

So being that I'm not working out today my mind goes straight to contest prep and suits.....I have been thinking about suit selection and last night I found some inspiration from Mendi Sakamoto's Blue 2 piece accented with the Blue Topaz........always loved Blue Topaz and had a beautiful set of earring's,necklace and rings about 6 years ago before my house was broken into and the thieves made off with my good stuff! I alway felt really pretty wearing my blue topaz so maybe that will give me a little extra boost of confidence on stage. Now I just need to find a suit in the above color that isn't velvet (Anybody got any ideas?) I almost can picture in my head the design and cut of the suit. Need to find a good seamstress that can fit the suit so it fits like a glove, just seems weird though asking someone to tailor a teeny tiny liitle 2 piece unless they are familier with Figure and fitness competitions......they see a tiny 2 piece and probably think Hooters Contest, how many times I've had to try to explain what the NPC is and what a figure contest is about, usually I just giveup and say it's like a Bodybuilding Competition. Close enough, I feel like most of us train and diet just as hard as a bodybuilder most days anyways.

I do have a slight bragg from yesterdays leg day......620 on the leg press! (6 reps) ok maybe a slight cheat because I put my hands on the knee's for a slight support anyways when I stood up after the last set I turn around to find a few fellows with their jaws dropped......teehee freakin love it!

Oh this Video is for C...........620 C. and I didn't even need a cork, go any higher though and I'm not so sure.

http://www.dailyhaha.com/_vids/expert_cork_shooter.htm

Friday Post

2009-03-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

I honestly don't have much today, thinking of doing some Cardio tonight and then back home for some good quality sleep. The plan for tomorrow will be killing the Shoulders so I can work on my caps!

Wanted to post a picture of Latisha Wilder because honestly I think she is a damn great Pro and on occasion doesn't get enough credit! Oh and I love her legs, mine are just blocks of cheese but hers have that nice separation, not sure with today's judging standards if it actually hurts her but I still think it looks awesome!

Peace, Love and Muscle,

Lisa

* Found this speech given by Nelson Mandela on Latisha's Site.

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate; our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are born to manifest the glory that is within us. And as we let our light shine we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

-Nelson Mandela Inaugural Speech, 1994

15 Years and counting!

2009-03-19T18:24:00.000-07:00

My Husband came home today from work with the most beautiful floral arrangement for me in honor of our 15 year Anniversary..........We have been together 18 years! Seems like a lifetime, poor guy has seen the good, the bad and in the morning the ugly from his wife and most days still thinks I'm pretty cute! I like to say we work because I'm the water too his fire and we seem to balance each other out in many respects. Plus I think part of the key to our marriage has been seeing both of our parent staying together for the long haul, they showed use that married wouldn't always be easy and no marriage is perfect but you just work through the hard times and love each other even when you don't on certain occasions like one another. Greatest gift parents can give children is showing love and respect to each other!

Oh and besides the Flowers my hubby brought me home a brand new pink IPod!!! I have killed 2 in the last 2 years...........boob sweat, don't ask!!! OK I stick it in my sports bra because I lost the arm band! (Sorry for the T.M.I.) Anyhoo for the Anniversary Dinner we decided to take the girls out with us and go too Old Chicago for Pizza, yep I had 2 1/2 slices of Deep Dish Pepperoni and then we went to Cold stone which I passed on but I had the husband go across the street for those 3 for $1.00 Chocolate Chip Cookies from McDonald's, oh so yummy! That meal will count as my cheat for the week....normally that would be on Saturdays but I'll just have to wait another 9 days for some good crap food!

Wanted to post a picture of my Abs before the pizza and cookies

This would be a shot of what the pizza and cookie bloat looks like after the feast!

I'd show a picture of my ass but that would send me straight to the treadmill.........even the husband told me tonight I was reaching max. capacity on the jeans! Grrrr..........May 1st and this ass in going down (Literally)

Have a great night

Lisa

Fear of Success Article

2009-03-15T20:04:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon a good article regarding the Fear of Success.........sometimes it's not a case of fearing failure it's actually the opposite that is holding you back! With success comes a whole host of different pressures and feelings that can be cripling if you let them get the best of you.

Fear of Success:

Sometimes you find yourself with a goal you think you should want to achieve, but you just don’t seem to be taking enough action to reach it. You aren’t really afraid of failure or rejection, the path to the goal seems clear enough and might even be an interesting challenge, and occasionally you’ll make some progress. But most of the time you can’t seem to get into that flow state, and you’re not sure why. This often happens with long-term goals that require intermittent action, like losing weight or transitioning to start a new business and eventually quit your job.

One question I’ve found helpful to ask in these situations is this: What will happen if you succeed? Forget about what you hope will happen or what you fear might happen, but realistically consider what probably will happen. So you achieve your goal. Then what? What else will change?

I’m not talking about giving a 5-second cursory answer, like “If I lose the weight, then I’ll be thin.” Set aside at least 15-30 minutes just to think about how your life will really change once you achieve your goal (with no TV, radio, or other distractions). There are often unexpected side effects that you may not be aware of consciously, but subconsciously they can be enough to prevent you from taking committed action. For example, if you lose a lot of weight, here are some possible side effects: people will notice and will comment about it, other people will ask you for diet advice, you may feel you need to continue with a permanent lifestyle change to maintain your new weight, you may need to buy new clothes, you may become more attractive to others and thereby attract more social encounters (wanted or unwanted), overweight friends might become jealous, your family may resist your changes, you may feel stressed about whether you can keep the weight off, you may worry about the loss of certain favorite foods from your diet, and so on.

It’s rare that a goal is all roses. Success requires change, and change has both positive and negative consequences. Often while people claim to want to succeed at something, the reality is that the negatives outweigh the positives for them. But one way to overcome this problem is to consciously think about what those negatives are, and then uproot them one by one. Uprooting a negative side effect could mean figuring out how to eliminate it completely, or it could mean just accepting it and learning to live with it.

It’s certainly helpful to focus on the positive side of a goal. But don’t forget to take an occasional survey of the dark side and accept that you’re going to have to deal with that too.

Unlike fear of failure and fear of rejection, fear of success can be far more insidious because it’s almost always unconscious. But it’s not fear of success itself that is the problem but rather fear of the side effects of success, many of which may be genuinely unwanted. Fears that are never evaluated consciously have a tendency to grow stronger. The reason is simple behavioral conditioning — when you avoid something you fear (either consciously or subconsciously), you automatically reinforce the avoidance behavior. So when you (even unknowingly) avoid working on your goal because of a hidden fear of success, you actually reinforce the habit of procrastination, so as time goes by, it becomes harder and harder to get yourself to take action. Insidious!

Asking, “What will happen if I succeed?” can solve this problem because it focuses your conscious attention on those fears. Fear has a tendency to shrink under direct examination, making it easier for you to take action. When I say that fear shrinks, another way of stating this is that subconscious behavioral conditioning weakens under conscious scrutiny. I know some people dislike the word “fear” with respect to their own behavior — don’t get hung up on the exact wording; call it “avoidance behavior” if that’s more to your liking.

But an additional benefit is that you can also devise intelligent work-arounds for those fears-made-conscious, some of which may indeed be valid signals of unsolved problems. For example, going back to the weight loss example, if you lose a lot of weight, you probably will need new clothes. And if you don’t have the money to buy new clothes, then that is a real problem you’ll need to address (unless you don’t mind wearing oversized outfits). Left unacknowledged, even a simple problem like this can be enough to subconsciously sabotage you from achieving your goal. But once you examine the situation consciously and figure out a way to deal with it in advance, you’re sending a message to your subconscious that you needn’t fear this problem because you have a practical way to solve it.

Now let’s consider the opposite side. Suppose you ask, “What will happen if I succeed?” and upon considering all the side effects, you realize that you don’t actually want to achieve the goal at all. The negatives outweigh the positives. I encountered this when I made a plan to grow my games business but didn’t seem to make as much progress as I wanted. When I asked this magic question, I realized that I didn’t really want to achieve the goal with all its side effects — what I really wanted was to transition to writing and speaking full time, and further building my games business would actually take me farther from that more important goal. Growing my games business seemed like a goal I should want, but when I really thought about where I’d be if I achieved that goal, I realized it wouldn’t be the success I truly wanted. That was a difficult realization for me… to recognize that my original ladder of success was now leaning against the wrong building. So I actually had to “unset” that goal once I really understood the likely consequences of achieving it.

Even now as I set goals in the direction of writing and speaking as my new career, I recognize that there are big side effects. I simply don’t have the mental bandwidth for two full-time careers. One of the hardest side effects for me was letting go of the goals and dreams I had for my games business. All those creative ideas for new games that will never be… and the would-be players who will never experience them…. But this is outweighed by what will happen as I succeed in my new career. To create a new game that challenges, entertains, and uplifts people is wonderful; however, being able to help people grow fulfills me even more. I found it a very enlightening process to review all these side effects and one by one to acknowledge that I accept them.

What will happen if you succeed? If you lose the weight… get the date… earn the promotion… start the business… get pregnant… quit smoking… become a millionaire… stretch yourself?

F.Y.I.

2009-03-11T20:00:00.001-07:00

OK yesterdays post was about me getting my Ultra 40 Tabs in the mail........well I ended up taking 1 at each of my last 3 meals of the day, my last meal I also took an Antibiotic for this damn Sinus thing I've had going on.......well I failed to read my labels on the medication which states "Do not take any Iron products within 2 hours of taking this medication" needless to say my stomach has been jacked up all freaking day, didn't even want to eat except for my daughters bagel this morning!

So my note for the day is always read your labels on any new products or medications that you receive so you don't make my mistake and feel like poo all day from a combination that doesn't mix well together.

On a positive note I did make it up too the Gym and didn't keel over! Honestly did a pretty good work out of Chest and Back........Lots of Pull ups!

Lisa

Tuesday Post

2009-03-10T13:01:00.000-07:00

Received my Ultra 40 Tabs today in the Mail and have to say not to bad on the taste or smell........I should be big and bad in no time flat! Just Kidding I think I would need a something little more then just the concentrated liver tabs to do that.

Last night went up to the Gym for some serious stretching and Steady State Cardio
I'd do the stretching at home but get distracted by the little one climbing on top of me and my dogs always want to play and lick my face if I'm down on the ground.

Anyways when I was at the Gym my friend Wendy was all excited because she got a meal and workout plan emailed to her by Brian Wiefering......Brian did an article this last month for the Beverly Internationals No Nonsense Newsletter, Anyhoo in his article he stated that if anyone emailed him he would work up a plan based on your stats and email it back to you. I think it is really nice that he actually is taking the time and helping people out for free! Wendy got the plan last week and has actually dropped 4 pounds already, hoping she can stick with it........sweet girl but she is always looking for that quick fix, you know will surf for hours online hoping to find the easiest way possible to get into shape. Honestly I emailed her about a year ago with my meal plan and workouts which is pretty darn close to what Brian sent her but you know what they say you can lead a horse to water but you can't make them drink! Actually with Wendy the truth is she is an emotional eater and I think with the help of her therapist she has started connecting the dots of what triggers her binges. Also from what I understand she has lost alot of weight in the past and did not really know how to handle all the attention from the opposite sex which goes back to some childhood trauma's.........with that being said we need to remember our emotional health is just as important as the physical health. Hoping that she can find that inner peace that everyone deserves and work on the outer shell so she is more comfortable in her own skin!

If anyone would like Brian's Email address it is www.wiefit.com. Wendy said that she also emailed with a few questions and he happily responded.

Lisa

Sunday Post

2009-03-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

What can you say other then this girl is beautiful and she has obviously work her tiny little hiney off for this win. I did also watched Gina Aliotti's interview and when asked what she will change leading into the Olympia her comment was nothing because she was pleased with what she brought to the stage. How can you argue with that, the way things work in this sport Gina will probably beat Ziville the next time around. I say bring your own best package, what looks best on you!

I haven't been up to the Gym yet today but I planning on this being a heavy leg night.....already have my workout mapped out and it goes a little something like this.

Superset 1
Hamstring Leg Press - will try for 565lb
Hanging Leg Raises

Superset 2
Dumbbell Stiff-Leg Deadlift - Will try for 60lbs
(Bought Wrist straps last week because my grip gives out!)
Bicycle Crunches

Superset 3
lying leg Curls - 35lbs (free weight between the legs)
Crunches

Superset 4
Donkey Calf Raises
Standing Calf Raises - Will try for 220

* After my weights I want to push one of those Kick Boxing Bags for a good burn on the legs followed by 20/25 minutes of Cardio. We shall see how I actually do! I have noticed lately I get really distracted at my Gym, maybe once I get closer to comp. time I need to find a different one so I can wear a baseball cap pulled down all low and really focus and not have to feel like I'm need to be polite if anyone interrupts my sets.......love my gym peeps but sometimes my sets get a little messed up because of my jaw doing the most exercise!

Hopefully this week my Ultra 40 Taps will come in. Ordered them last week off of EBay so I'm a little nervous, 500 tabs for only $18.00 pretty good price! Heard they smell like fish, guess I will just have to hold my noise and swallow really fast. As long as they don't make me smell like fish I'm good, my husband already says that I smell like rice and Broccoli all the time!

One last thing I wanted to post some pictures of the last suit that I stoned myself. I chalked the outline first on the suit so both sides matched with regular old chalk......tried Fabric Pencils, Lime Stone you name it but with the Velvet nothing worked as well as the chalk, also the outline washed off really easy with a wash cloth if I screwed up. Used 3 tubes of E6000 and about 2000 stones......I think I'm a visual person and love alot of bling so it was a case of well a little is nice but think of how it will look with a few more! Most likely I won't wear the suit for my next comp. because I want to try a different material and color. Feeling maybe blue?
not Navy though......done that one didn't really feel it on me! Oh and the bling between the (girls) if you know what I mean is actually 2 buttons. Sometimes you just have to be creative!

2009-03-05T18:52:00.000-08:00

Thought I would post a picture of my little trouble maker Geronimo......I'm such a sucker for a pound puppy! He is a full blooded Boxer that ended up at the Rescue weighing in at 8 pounds and sick, sick, sick! When we adopted him he was 4months old and only weighed 12 lbs. at the time we thought it was just a case of malnutrition but as it turns out we adopted a dog that has a very rare genetic disorder that even the Vets at Michigan State have only seen 3 times! In a nutshell he has no bladder control just kind of walks and pee's at the same time!!! Let's just say you don't want him sleeping on your side of the bed unless he's got his little doggy diaper on, poor guy......looks so macho and wears a diaper. Besides the little pee problem he is the most loving and silly dog ever but he is very naughty especially if he gets bored. My Gerr always wants to be by my side, kind of think he's under the impression that he is a lap dog. For a short time we did try using the same medicine they give kids who wets the bed......the Vet turned it into an eye drop that we gave him but at $80.00 a pop every 10 days and no signs of making a huge difference we stopped giving it to him..........I just have to monitor his water intake and take him out as soon as he drinks anything because it literally runs through his system as fast as it goes in! He's got such great disposition I just don't have the heart to put him down!

Anyways I keep going on Sioux Country tonight waiting for updates on the AM Pre-Judge.....really want to see what look they are rewarding this year! Plus I have competed along side some of the girls that are doing the show which is exciting, love seeing girls go on and do really well on the bigger stages! Plus watching the show makes me want to start prepping myself for July! May can't come soon enough to start this prep so I can start shedding the Winter weight, especially after tonight and trying on jeans at the store.........tried on some 3's and they were screaming all the way up (wasn't happening) I would like to say it is just because I've gained sooooooo much muscle in my legs but I have to be real I gots me some cheese going on. I did get weighed at the Doctors office on Tuesday and I almost asked for a do over and stripped down naked.......I literally have not weighed this much EVER unless of course it was during a pregnancy. OK I will share the # (122lbs.) on the positive side what is in a number, maybe instead of getting caught up in the number I should have my body fat checked so I know where I actually stand in the game! I have to think of this as a sport and if you want to improve sometimes that requires being uncomfortable for a matter of time to make the necessary improvements. We will see if it has been worth kicking the Cardio and upping my eats this Winter once I line up in a teeny tiny little 2 piece in July!

Anyways I signing off so I can swing back to the Sioux Site for updates!!!!

As Peggy Sue Crawford would say......Peace, Love and Muscle,

Lisa

Thanks

2009-03-02T08:39:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all my Blogger friends that made comments on yesterdays Post! I have decided that I need to change my mindset and become focused on how I can look as close to my inspiration photo's as possible! It just takes a plan and patience for everything to come together, like my wise Grandmother used to say "Rome wasn't built in a day" and neither was the perfect ass. Ok I added the 2nd part, even though she would have agreed.

Also Jessica who also is a very wise girl once said don't ever let someone else stop you from competing, and don't doubt yourself! Use it to fuel the flame, and to motivate yourself - instead of knocking yourself down a peg! She is right from this point I will only look towards others peoples Comp. Photo's for Motivation and Inspiration so when I'm doggin it in the Gym I can remind myself of my ultimate stage day look that I want to present to the judges..........oh and can I say I want to look ripped! I'm pretty sure the judges around these parts still really like that look! Nationals not so much.......

Oh and if you haven't already guessed Erin Stern is my inspiration this season, I have her as my screen saver as a reminder when I sitting down at the Computer with a Cookie of what my goals for this year really are!

Lisa

Comparing

2009-02-27T21:00:00.001-08:00

The week in training has been pretty good, yesterday however I did notice that my left shoulder was really weak! You would think being left-handed that side of my body would be stronger but it's not. I'm just going to have to find a way to get old left on the same page as righty.

Was wondering how many people every get caught up in comparing themselves to others.......what I mean here is I've been reading blogs and lurking over at Sioux Country for awhile and I'm finding that I start questioning myself for wanting to compete because some of these girl just look amazing and unless I can stand in a lineup looking amazing myself then I just shouldn't be on the stage! It's really easy to start looking at photo's of other people especially those in the swings of a full-blown contest prep and start comparing yourself to them. I'm certainly not looking contest ready at the moment being I'm still trying add muscle so being contest lean should not be on my current agenda, lean is not my priority but at the same time I question myself as far as have I been doing enough this Winter that once the extra booty fat has been peeled away will see the improvements that I've been striving so hard for.

Also if I look at other girls progress photo's I get the well if I only could look like her thoughts going on.....take for an example the girl who won the overall at my last show, she is extremely lean and has a long torso she looks good at 109lbs but for me to compare myself with her isn't really fair at least that is what I keep trying to tell myself being that we are built so different and I would look horrible at 109lbs. Everyone through trial and error must find what looks best on their own frame! Some can come in at 7% body fat and look amazing while another girl at 7% can look completely over dieted and sickly.

Another thing is every one's training may differ. Some girls may need to train like a bodybuilder because they lack size while another girl who has to much size might need to bring it down a notch and just focus on overall conditioning exercises to step on the stage. I just want to be able to look at the things I do have going on for myself and train for what is best for me and stop comparing and feeling like a slacker for not pushing heavier weight or flippen a 500 pound tire!

Anyhoo I did find a Monica Brant YouTube Video of her posing and thought I would post for some of you that are gearing up for a show!

Fat Tuesday

2009-02-24T21:06:00.001-08:00

All I have to say on this one is Thank God I didn't work today! My office in years past would have been filled with these Polish heavenly little Donuts that go straight to your hips and thighs........all kinds, Custard, Strawberry filled, Prune and 10 to 1 someone would have plunked down 2 dozen of these things in the Kitchette right across from my desk! The smells alone could have added 3 pounds.

Saved by the off day! Hopefully we don't have leftovers hanging around in the morning when I'm my weakest.

Lisa

Plan of Attack

2009-02-23T13:10:00.001-08:00

This week I have been thinking about my next contest in July and I need a solid plan of attack, Maybe my first thing is too start marking down dates on the Calendar. If I have 10 solid weeks left of Hugo Rivera's Hard gainers plan to complete that leads me into early May which should be plenty of time for refining and shedding a few pounds before July. Also I want to try a new diet this time around, I'm thinking Beverly's Diet......Basically it seems very close to what I have done in the past but this time around I just don't want to do any guess work. I'm learning that most successful people first had a plan and that is what I need!

Anyways today I was searching around the net and came across Erin Riley 4 weeks of the Arnold.......the way she trains is so intense I love it! This is what I find motivating seeing plain old hard work, determination and grit to get the job done, you can see when she trains she is all about business and let me tell you it shows in the end result. It amazes me what mental strength a true competitor has, it's not about the Bikini for me on the stage it's the process in getting to that day that counts!

I wanted to post these You Tube's mostly for my own reference for when the time is right to change my training so I can refer back to Erin for motivation and idea's.

These were almost all filmed during the 4-weeks mark, but its taken me this long to get them up because of my crazy schedule. Most of the training is done at a facility called Body Goals in Fairfield, NJ. Videos include:
box squat 185 x 15 and 265 x 2
bench press 135+ chains x 6-7reps
push press 135 x 8
dead lift 265 x 3 and 300 x 1
SNEAK PEAK of some routine training
and a 500 lb truck tire flip

Enjoy!

See everyone at the arnold in 2 weeks

Blogger withdrawl

2009-02-22T17:48:00.000-08:00

I haven't been able to get on the Internet since Friday and I was starting to show signs of Blogger withdrawal! No Visionquester updates, Nada! Thankfully about an hour ago my Internet Fairy came along and got me back online!

Can I just say the best medicine to getting out of a funky mood is hanging out with your oldest and dearest friends! Friday night I met up with 5 of my girls for Dinner and Drinks.....I swear to God I haven't laughed that hard in month's, one of the girls brought old photo's from the early 90's that had us all rolling, anybody remember Mall Hair and Blue Jeans that I swear came up to your boobies and the biggest sack chasing earring's you have ever seen i.e. huge gold hoops that weighed about 2lbs a piece! We all promised that we would try for a least once a month for a night on the town and we all agreed that a place called Boogie Fever should be our next girls night out, they play all 80's music so it should be fun and the crowd is a little older, last time we went dancing it was all college kids and it made us feel really really old!

On the workout front I totally killed my shoulders yesterday and today it was all about Hamstrings/abs/calves. Upped the weight on all my moves today except for my lying leg curls because for some reason when I tried to do them my calves cramped up......not really sure why but if you have ever gotten a cramp in your calves it hurts like a mofo. Dropping the heavier weight and changing up the workout's seem actually to be working I really think my little old legs are starting to grow because Friday I wore a pair of jeans that seemed to have gotten much tighter in the quads and booty. Normally that probably would have some women crying but I'm pretty stoked about it!

Oh 1 last thing I went out with the girls and even stayed on plan.......plain Chicken Breast and Steamed Broccoli for Dinner and sipped on Iced Tea at the Bar, woot woot, and if your ever gone to Olive Garden for Dinner you know that isn't easy........they have the best Bread sticks and Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo! Honestly didn't even think twice about it when I ordered.

Gotta catch up with all my blogs!

Lisa

Sissy Squats

2009-02-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

Ok so yesterday I started my building phase of Project legs and for the first time I did Sissy Squats........can I just say my knee's buckled at least like 5 times and I landed on my arse! Holy cow who knew my own body weight would make my knee's buckle, good thing I found a secluded spot in the Gym otherwise I think people would have been laughing at me (They probably do that anyways) Anyhoo I found this YouTube and wanted to share......note this Sissy Squat demonstration is not exactly what mine looked like last night!

Oh 1 last thing on legs, one of the Muscle and the City Girls talked about how she squatted 200lbs the other day and being the competitive person that I am thought well hell if she can so can I..........1/2 way down I found out I thought wrong! 160lb is all I had in me! So Props to all of you girls dropping the big numbers on the weights.

Vince Gironda Demonstration of the Sissy Squat:

Workout Log

2009-02-17T13:45:00.000-08:00

I did what I said I would do and that was just go to the Gym no matter what and get in my workout and stay on track.......had I not gone honestly I would have kicked myself and ended up feeling like I let myself down.

My workouts looked like this:

Saturday - Legs

Hamstring Leg Press: 4 sets of 8 Reps @ 510lbs
Hanging leg raises 3 sets of 10/15 Reps

Dumbbell Stiff-legged Deadlift: 10/12 Reps 2 Sets with 45lb Dumbbells
Bicycle Crunches: 15 Reps 3 Sets

Lying Leg Curls - 35lb dumbbell between my feet 10/12 Reps 4 Sets
(Gym doesn't have the Machine)
Crunches 10/15 Reps 3 Sets

Donkey Calf Raises 10-15 Reps 4 Sets
Standing Calf Raises - 180lbs 8 Reps 3 Sets

Sunday - Back/Rear Delts
Pullups and Chin ups: until failure
Rack Pulls: 150lbs 4 Sets 6/8 Reps
Back Extensions: 4 Sets 10 Reps holding onto 45lb weight
Pull-Downs: 4 sets 8/10 Reps 80lbs
2 Sets of Rear Delt Exercises
* Also I channeled Valerie Waugamon on a couple of exercises (Can't think of the names right off) but I think they are highly effective!!!

Monday - Cardio/Abs
Crunches With a 45lb plate on my chest
Broomstick Twists
Laying leg raises on a stability ball

30 Minutes of Cardio......Ran a minute/walked a minute (back and forth)
After the Cardio I pushed the kick boxing bag the length of the aerobics room 4 times just for a little burn on the Quads and booty in a squated position.

Tuesday: Chest and Tri's
Inclines: 10sets of 10 @ 75lbs (Really weak and it pisses me off!)
Unassisted Dips 2 sets of 15 reps with a 22lb dumbbell held between my feet (Dropped the weight at 9 reps and continued until I got to the 15 Reps)
Tricep Pushdowns 4 Sets of 10 @ 70lbs
Tricep Extensions: 4 Sets of 10 60lbs

* Oh and during the 10sets of 10 inclines I supersetted with Standing Calf Raises
(180lbs)

My goal for next week is lifting heavier.......not to compare myself with anyone else but I see the weight others are pushing out and it makes me feel like a slacker! Especially the Inclines, one of my Gym friends saw me today and mentioned how she thought I was much stronger then that! I guess we all have our own weak points and that my friends is mine, probably why I don't like to do them......kindof like Bowling I suck so it really isn't fun for me!

Tomorrow will be a rest day, no Cardio or weights........just stretching
Then on Thursday it will be a leg day again (focusing on my Quads)

On the Food front I did pretty good except I really need to start drinking more water especially with the Creatine that I'm taking..........in a perfect World I would like to drink a gallon of Regular Coca Cola but I guess I'd better stick with water!

Feminism Picture

2009-02-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

Found this photo and it kind of made me laugh today which is a really good thing! Needing all humor I can get.....wondering how many of the married women have felt like this with husbands? I'm sure my mine has gotten the same statement a time or 2 from me if he asked me at the wrong time of the month for a sandwich or getting him something to eat! He's actually a pretty good guy about stuff like that, his mom schooled him well.......

Falling off the Bandwagon?

2009-02-15T07:26:00.001-08:00

This week for me has not exactly been one of my best weeks ever on the workout front......my little bambino was sick all week and shared the germs with her mom, I swear to god I feel someone has come to my house and stolen every drop of energy and motivation from me! Since last Monday I've been up to the Gym 1 time and had to totally talked myself into going. Honestly once I started my workout I did fine and actually felt much better afterwards but just getting started was a chore.

Does anyone ever worry about falling off the bandwagon so to speak? Like 4 days off from working out will turn into a 3 month couch fest? I think if I didn't workout and stay active it would be really bad not only for my ass but mentally....I really need the workouts for my PMA so I guess it just kind of scares me that I will get out of my routine and let it all go to crap.

At the Gym yesterday I did talk with a few of the regulars and they are all feeling the same way at the moment......no motivation, energy and just feel basically like they are going through the motions so I guess I'm not alone! Maybe it has something to do with the weather being so cold and dreary out, it would help every one's spirits just to have some sun and be able to get outside for some good clean air. The thought of my Summer Bike rides with the girls sounds so nice! My little one still rides on the back of my bike and its also good for me and older one.........on our bike rides she and I have the best conversations, I get to hear all the good 6th grade Drama! For me its the best time of year.....mom gets her cardio and girl at the same time.....girls get mom, cardio and slurpee's for the ride home. Hopefully the Groundhog was correct and we really do only have 6 weeks until Spring because this momma needs some sun and motivation. Can't even imagine living in Alaska, sure it is beautiful but it would not be a good spot for me.

Tonight I did actually tell my friend Carolyn to meet me at the Gym at 7pm so we could workout together and go for Ice Tea's afterwards, if I know that I've got a commitment at the Gym I am more likely to show up for my workout! I guess that is what I'm going to have to do until I find what I'm missing at the moment, just make a showing at the Gym instead of waiting for the motivation before I go, otherwise I just might not be going.

Lisa T.

Metabolism Article

2009-02-10T19:08:00.000-08:00

I was online tonight and found an article about Metabolic Slowdown and thought this one was pretty interesting so I thought I would share!

Author is Wayne Mcgregor who has a degree in nutrition and dietetics, and a diploma in fitness training

Dieting and the Metabolic Slowdown
Metabolic slowdown when dieting

Metabolic slowdown will happen to everyone on a calorie reduced diet. This also includes people on a low-carb diet as the net effect of the low-carb is also a calorie reduced intake. A slow metabolism is often the reason why dieters experience a sticking point in their weight loss results, but why and how does a slow metabolism occur and how can we reduce the effects?

The biggest mistake many dieters make is cutting calories too much too soon. With an overwhelming desire to lose weight quickly they start dieting with the attitude that cutting calories more would result in shedding more fat from the body stores. This is a major mistake and the reason why weight is gained back soon after dieting. This practice always leads to a metabolic slowdown as the body tries to conserve energy. Glycogen stores become depleted and the body must oxidize protein more regularly to account for a severe calorie reduction. Both processes cause the body to lose water, thus weight is lost quickly but unfortunately, more than 90 percent will come from lean tissue.

Reducing metabolic slowdown
No matter how you lose weight there will always be some amount of metabolic slowdown. The trick is to limit the slowing of your metabolism as much as possible. The best policy to ensure a lower metabolic slowdown is to work out your present calorie intake and reduce it by 15 percent. The body will recognise and react to a smaller deficit by oxidising (burning) more fat. In general a calorie reduction greater than 15 percent will lead to bigger metabolic slowdown, making fat loss more difficult. To be safe never consume fewer calories than your resting metabolism.

An example using the quick method for estimating maintenance calorie requirement

A female weighing 200 pounds!

Maintenance of present weight = 15 - 16 calories per lb. of body weight

200 x 15 = 3000 calories per day.

Reduce by 15% - 3000 x 0.85 = 2550.

The female in the example above roughly requires a diet wit a total of 2550 calories per day. This is only a rough guide based on body weight. Other factors such as age, sex, body composition and activity levels should be included in order to work out an accurate calorie requirement.

Work out your calorie requirement more accurately here -- NOTE! I would suggest using the Harris-Benedict equation, then multiply the number by your appropriate activity multiplier!

No matter how you work out your daily calorie requirements just remember the 15 percent rule and you will lose weight and limit a slowdown in your metabolism. You may only lose up to 2 pounds each week but at least it will be fat loss, the best way to gradually reveal your taught, muscular body underneath!

Human Metabolism rate
Potential change in metabolic speed rate

Slow metabolic rate causes weight problems

Increase mitochondria to speed up metabolic rate
Raise Metabolism with little Exercise
Factors that speed up metabolism

Ways to increase the metabolism

Picture for my frigerator

2009-02-07T19:36:00.000-08:00

OK just found this photo of Christine Aguilar and her backside just can not be possible! That is just not right.......that picture makes me want to jump on a treadmill and start sprinting on a super high incline and doing some squats! This girl hasn't touch a Chocolate Chip Cookie in like forever! Maybe I should print this picture out and stick it smack dab on the frig. to remind me of my booty goals!

Today I took one of my old Oxygen Magazines with me for Shoulder inspiration, put it right in front me as I was lifting weights! Focused on Gina Aliotti's picture of her win at Nationals when she got her Pro Card! Maybe the inspiration helped me out being that for the first darn time with a spot I got those damn 40lb Free Weights up for my presses.....it has been a goal of mine this Winter to get past the 35's but for some reason I don't know if it is mental or what but I just haven't been able to do it up until this point.........maybe next week I won't even need the spotter, it always makes me mad when I can't seem to push past a certain weight. Have you noticed this stuff just doesn't get any easier if you want to make progress! At least for me it is not getting any easier but I like the challenge.

Hey if anyone out in Blog land has any thoughts on the effectiveness of Creatine I would love to hear.......I'm taking it at the moment and was wondering if others find it worth while?

Have a great night,

Lisa

Adjusted my workouts and feeling better

2009-02-05T18:22:00.001-08:00

I never made my back workout on Tuesday night decided I should give my body a chance to fight off whatever it was that was making me feel so horrible and call it a day. Sometimes the body just says no ah ah.....not today and Tuesday was my day! It all worked out anyways this week for the training because I normally take Wednesday off and instead I was doing Rack Pulls and Pull Ups, see I just adjusted.....got a different plan in hand, had I crawled my way up to the gym on Tuesday what good would it have done anyways......only thing that I would have probably done was lay on a bench and pray for mercy and share my germs!

Today I received a email back from one of my favorite Pro Fitness Competitors, she is Judge and Promoter in my State, she has so much knowledge about the sport and all things fitness.....she has not competed in such a long time and I'm really hoping she makes a comeback next year! Also I love the mature muscle she has you can totally tell she has been training for years, you would think that the very young girls would be the ones with the fantastic body's but from my experience competing the women to look out for are the ones in their mid 30's on up to the early 40's. On a State Level one of the Top girls to look out for if your in the Short Class will be 43 this year! Actually she won this past year at the Masters National for her height class, sweet girl also so I can't even hate on her!!! I'd kill for her butt.

Speaking of butts I got my Leg and Booty workout in today! Woot Woot got up to 165 on my squat, wrapped my knee's today and it really helped......my right knee had been bothering me from last week and I decided if the weight was going to keep increasing I really needed to protect the knee's from an injury that could be permanent. See I'm listening to my body! Now if my body would just listen to me for a moment and get in line with my program that would be wonderful.......July will be here before you know it and I need rock solid glutes and some tear drops in my Quads!

I found this video online tonight of Val W., I always think of her when I'm doing legs......have you seen her before and after shot? I see that and it gives me hope also I like Val because honestly I believe she is all Natural! Also I love the way she workouts and the way she gets her own motivation and inspiration...........note in this video she is focusing on a picture of Arnold when doing part of her workout! Also I've seen other video's of her and she always has a plan and a mental picture of what she wants to accomplish in the Gym before her workout and gets her mind and body working as a team.

This video is of her in the last week of prep for a show in 2007

I want Wheat Thins

2009-02-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

Can I just say I'm feeling like one big ball of crappola! I think it would be TOM or at least I'm hoping that is what it is being that I've heard that we have some nasty little bugs flying around these parts lately! Hoping it passes and I find my Mojo and actually make it up to the Gym tonight for my back workout, actually going back to bed sounds like better plan at the moment.

Maybe it is TOM being that he doesn't show up very often, which is nothing out of the ordinary......honestly it has been that way since I was a teenager, just kind of feel like a big old brick landed on me today and I'm feeling like my whole body has the DOMS which really can't have anything to do with yesterdays workout which was not impressive in the least......Chest and that was it, Inclines and Dips and a couple of other moves and I was out of the place fast!

I did notice that Sunday night after I did some posing my back was doing a little bit of screaming, that posing stuff is harder then you think! Holding a back pose requires using muscles that just are not used to being locked into that position!

Oh well I think I will have to sign off and go veg. on the couch being that my head is bobbing and I want to fall sleep at the computer, Also Wheat Thins sound really good at the moment, if I find that I want French Fries its all over for me, something about Fries.....always want them when I get the flu! Don't even ask me Sweet Potato's, that would be like asking someone who had a bad drinking experience to have some Peach Schnapps.

Peace Out,

Lisa

Progress Shots

2009-02-01T19:47:00.000-08:00

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Decided tonight that I would post progress shots of my backside......1st photo was taken December 14th and the 2nd and 3rd shots I had the Husband take tonight. I just completed tonight weeks 2-7 of the Hardgainers Hypertrophy Phase #1: Volume Training. The program is 21 weeks so my plan is too post progress shots about every 6weeks.

I do kind of have to face some facts about the back of my legs....starting at the calves, lets face it I will never have impressive calves! I believe I can improve them but diamond shaped calves aren't going to happen! However as far as the Hamstrings and Butt I will remain positive that through hard work and a good plan of attack they will respond before July! Mind/Muscle connection, if I think it it will happen!

Hey getting off on a another topic did anyone go to the Gym tonight? I went and got in my workout around 7:00pm and I could have heard a pin drop in the place.......loved it, it was like having the place all to myself! No waiting for a machine, got in and got the job done! Didn't even have my Sunday Night gym buddies which I love but sometimes my jaw gets more of a workout then anything else. You know the Gym's will be hopping tomorrow from all the people that feel like they over did it tonight and want to work off all the damage that was done today! Monday's are typically crazy anyways but I suspect tomorrow will be even worse because of all the Super Bowl Party damage that was done! No Wing Dings for me this year, actually I did my damage yesterday which is my planned Cheat day.......it was so good, always go for the sure bet, I get all pissy if my cheat sucks! Yesterday was the Single Combo from Wendy's and chocolate chips cookies for the top off! I'll stay good all week but 1 meal man I'm eating what I want! Actually I think it makes my shoulder workout better on Saturday's because I always go into my workout knowing that when I leave the Gym I'm headed off to get some really good crap food. If I don't cheat or do a refeed I start dreaming about food and start sabotaging myself with my portions because I just don't feel satisfied or more so full, is that crazy sounding?

Anyways hope everyone has a great night........

Oh one last thing my little ham wanted her progress shot posted also! The 12 year old would kill me if I posted her shot! Hey if mom's posing they always get in on the action! Hey you never know maybe one of my girls will be the future of fitness!

p

Get your back off the wall

2009-01-28T20:06:00.000-08:00

Today after work I picked up my little partner in crime up from School and we were on our way home when an old song came on the radio. Even though the song was about getting off the wall and dancing it made me think of it as getting off the wall and going after my dreams! I don't want to just move my lips anymore I want to take action people real action, not just my training and competition goals but professional goals! I want to dance (Live Life to the fullest) not sitting back on the wall to afraid to step out of that comfortable place.

Anyways this is a youtube of song that was on the radio today, its old school but
it had me and my little super star singing and busting a move on our ride home!

What are you going to do? I know the place I will start tomorrow!

Cake Dreams

2009-01-27T18:24:00.000-08:00

I'm so spent today.....last night I did Chest and Tri's and really felt it this morning! I think it was the unassisted Dips, I held a 20lb weight between my feet to make it a little more difficult and then did my dreaded Inclines and upped my weight on those......man can I say this stuff doesn't get any easier when you want to see progress! This afternoon I went back and did Back and Bi's, kind of had to drag my butt into the Gym today, honestly I try really hard to stick to my plan on training and go even when I don't feel like it, usually if can just get there I'm good and can find my Mo Jo plus I know that tomorrow I'm not working out which always gives that extra incentive to get my butt in the Gym. Just Git-R-Done attitude most days.

Hey can anyone tell me why I've been dreaming about cake? Oh were not talking about having just a slice dream but the whole damn cake taking out my husband with the fork to get away from my cake dreams! 2nd time I've had this dream. My friend Carolyn thinks it is because I'm so controlled over my eating that subconsciously I want to really eat with reckless abandonment. Maybe my dreams were prompted by a conversion that I had with my husband, he brought home Pizza Hut last Friday Night.....Pizza, Mac and Cheese, Bread sticks. I asked the husband what he thought on the Mac and Cheese W/Bacon as far as Calories/Fat content.....the husband stated he was on the don't ask don't tell program of eating and proceeded to pat his belly and load his plate, me didn't touch it and I stuck with the healthy fish and greens. But I have to say it did smell really good but my conscious mind told me that food would do nothing for my body and defeat my overall goals.

I found a picture of my daughters 3rd birthday cake. If I'm being honest I totally ate with Reckless abandonment that day......I ate Pooh Bears Butt all on my own! That cake was like crack for me, literally could not push away from the table, didn't even use a plate and ate straight off the cake! I guess I just transferred Pooh's Butt onto mine! lol

Preacher Curls

2009-01-26T16:10:00.001-08:00

Last Thursday night I was at the Gym doing my leg night and one of the Gym Regulars was doing Preachers Curls and heard a pop and noticed his Bicep muscle had retracted towards his shoulder! 3rd time in a year that someone from the Gym while doing a Preacher Curl has had a major injury......2 ruptured tendons and a fractured wrist! I'm no expect in such matters but the only thing that I can think is they are dropping the weight and not descending slowly and keeping form which then is tearing the tendon. I'm thinking maybe I will avoid the Preacher Curl, never really liked them anyways! I just can't imagine that type of injury when you are training for competition.......this type of injury will for sure keep you out of the game an entire season for rehap.

I am posting a YouTube of a guy tearing his bicep tendon while doing a lift just as an example of why form is sooooo important.

Comp. tips and what goes in my bag

2009-01-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

I was reflecting yesterday about how much I have learned in the 6 shows that I have competed in. My first contest was back in 2006 my placing for the Open Medium Class was 10th out of 13th, my placing for the Masters Class was 6th out of 10.......do I feel that I was jipped nope not at all, do I think that show made me want to be better and kick some ass later, hell yes!

Everyone has that first show.....let me tell you I understand how nervous you are going to be! Geesh you don't know what to expect but yet your excited because you have trained so hard for so many weeks and you want to show off your transformed body, your afraid you will trip onstage, you think you won't remember how to pose or you have a mental picture of your boob popping out of the suit, etc. Let me tell you as nervous as you are going to be leave the nerves at the front door of the Venue and when it is your turn to hit that stage look the judges in the eyes, make them notice you.......own that shit oops I mean stage. I can tell you my last show I did I won my Masters Class and the reason I got 1st was because of stage presence and posing and I believed once I got on that stage that I had already won! The girl who come in 2nd was beautiful and had alot going on but once she stepped on stage she looked so scared and nervous the whole time which made her posing really stiff. If I had gotten really initimated before I went on stage and gave into the nerves she could have beat me.

Piece of advise that I haven't used but might help someone else is if you need something to relax you could try sipping a little wine before you hit the stage.

I've had to do so much foot work on my own, I've for the most part been DIY girl except for the Posing and some diet help I received during the Summer of 2007.

So my post for today I want to just share some of the products that I use and take with me on Comp. Day.......if you are going to do your first show just maybe this will help some.

My first thing that rolls into a show with me is:

Many girls have trouble matching foundation. Through trial and error I have settled on MAC (NC 45)

www.MACCosmetics.com

False Eyelashes can really bring out your eyes and make them pop.......however they can be very tricky if you have not used them before, my suggestion is
(Eyelash Extensions) lasts about 2 weeks and then you just get them filled.

Nails I always go with a French Manicure. Toes are whatever you want as far as I'm concerned. Cynthia Herndon I believe won her Pro Card wearing Black Toe Nail Polish.

For shoe I shop online at Snaz.com they are much cheaper then any other source I have found.

www.Snaz75.com

The photo below is a good example of what your shoes should look like......I have used the strapped kind only because I'm more comfortable in them. You can also add clear stones if you want to bling them out!

This photo is a shoe that Judges do not like (High Platform) not good! This shoe is good for the Stripper/Pole not Figure Competitions.

If your looking for a gently used suit a great resource is Diva Exchange.......you can find some really good deals and just as an F.Y.I. if you ever go with a used CJ (Cynthia James) 2 pieces from what I understand she only asks 2 questions when cutting a suit (boob size and weight) so if your measurements are close to the sellers you have a pretty good shot its going to fit unless she cut the back straps or had it altered.

divaexchange.com

Passion Fruits
Suits start at 199.00 for plain 2 pieces
http://www.passionfruitdesigns.com/designer.htm

CC Fitwear has great 1 and 2 piece suits (Remember this year the state and National level only require a 2 piece) I bought a CC Fitwear for my September Show and was really pleased with the level of Customer Service and Quality of the suit.
2 pieces suits are $100.00 unstoned
www.ccfitwear.com

A great source for stones is Designer Trends by Tami........150 stones for about $8.00-$10.00 and she has about any color and size you could ever imagine! For glue I really love E6000......Note that I have tried about 5 other kinds of glue and this by far is the best (I think it was about $3.99 at Walmart)
http://www.designertrendsbytami.com

* My first show I did not put any color on.......don't follow that lead the lights from the stage will wash you out and you will stand out like a sore thumb.

Since that 1st show I have used Pro tan and Jan Tana
For application this is what I do:

Wednesday Shave and Exfoliate
Wednesday week of Comp 1 coat Pro Tan (Remember to sleep in old clothes and sheets)
Thursday rinse off in the morning and put on 1 coat Pro Tan
Thursday evening another 1 coat Pro Tan
Friday morning another 1 coat Pro Tan
Friday Evening 1 more coat Pro Tan if needed (Dry) and put one coat of Jan Tana
(The Jan Tana gives you a nice brown color)
Saturday Morning do hands, feet, neck W/Pro tan and Jan Tana
Jan Tana Face/Neck.......I mix a little moisturizer into my palm with the Jan Tana so it goes on easier.

Make sure you take your Tanning Products with you in a plastic bag so if they leak they won't ruin your suit. I have worn my suit under my track suit to most of the venue's because by the time everyone is measured for height and they do the Pre-Judge meeting with the Figure,Fitness and Bikini girls you don't have alot of time left for hair, makeup and getting your suit on.

This is my source for the Pro tan and Jan Tana
An eBay Store maintained by:dw-supplements ( 3 )
Bikini Bite $5.99 Pro tan 8.5 $13.99 List Price

Bikini Bite is for gluing your suit in place.

* I've read you can pop the ball out of the top of your Bikini Bite and pour into a plastic container and use a paint brush to spread on your butt....air dry a few seconds, bend over and stick your suit into place. Oh and pee first never fails as soon as I glue myself in I have to go! One more piece of advise a very wise girl told be me to glue my nipples into the suit top also! Just don't overkill it so the glue shows through the suit.

After the show I clean my suit with Shampoo for color treated hair. Hang dry

I also always take needle and thread that match my suit.....I've literally had to sew a back strap back on because of pulling it so tight. And yes one time coming off the stage I did not tie my suit tight enough and my strap popped and my boob almost said hello to the audience!

For oil I just use Pam Cooking Spray. Pat on your body, don't slather!

Bring a Towel

water if you are getting overly dehydrated.....seen girls almost drop

Bands for pumping up backstage.........most promoters provide weights and bands but remember depending on the size of the show they might be hard to get your hands on.

Makeup, Curling Iron, Hairspray

Food

Wear a zip up top so you don't have to pull your top over your head and mess up your hair and makeup.

Flip Flops so you don't mess your Pro Tanned feet up

Jewelry......Pre-Judge you can wear your all your bling

OK this one might be graphic but it never fails for me but my period (T.O.M) shows up 2 days before a show which I have been told can work in your favor because your water will be at its lowest level in your body, so if it happens cut your tampon string or tuck up in place and for added protection you can use a thong panty liner. I actually have heard of a girl that had her string hanging out!!! That poor girl.

Don't forget the Camera......need photo's to show your Grand kids someday!
(Grandma was hot!)

My last thing that I bring to every show is my Sportsmanship. You may not always agree with the judging and it can hurt your ego if you don't place, I've licked my own wounds before after a show but I've suck it up and gave Props to the girls who did place.......if you have the drive and desire to go back at it I guarantee you one day will have your win and it will be really sweet! This is going to sound really sappy but the night before I won my 1st place I saw a shooting star with my 11year old daughter and she said she made a wish for me that I would win, my win came 2years to the date of my first show which just happened to be the one that I was once again competing in, remember I came in 10th out of 13th that 1st time. For me not winning has pushed me to a higher level more driven each time to prove something I guess, I want the outside to match how I feel on the inside. Also what lessons would I learn if I never had to struggle for a win?

Hoping maybe some of this information will help a girl prepping for that 1st show.

Take Care,

Lisa T.

* Quote from Howard Cosell

The ultimate victory in Competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of that you have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give.

Update on leg day!

2009-01-22T18:42:00.000-08:00

Hey no bucket needed today and I even added weight!

Just wanted to clarify my workout for legs today.
Went a little something like this:

Superset #1
Squats (Medium Stance) 10 reps each set...after each set I do 10 Ab Crunches
Rest 1 minute then repeat! 10 Sets/10 Reps back and forth

Squats (Wide Stance) 15/20 reps rest 1 minute repeat (2 set total)

Calf Press 8 reps (rest 30 seconds) repeat 8 times

Tomorrow I plan on taking the day off from training so I will be fully charged up for Shoulder Saturday!!!

Train hard and have fun,

Lisa

Backside

2009-01-22T09:16:00.000-08:00

This first picture I have up today is Class D from a National Level Show from last Season, this people is my competition! They all look wonderful and have the nice Glute/Ham Tie in that am trying for.

My second picture however is how I feel today regarding my own backside!

Alright that might be a complete exaggeration but this off-season build phase can really start messing with the mind when your popping buttons off your work pants and squeezing into your favorite jeans, plus I swear that my ass is clapping when I run around the track at the Gym. I keep telling myself that I can't look any different from last year if I'm not willing to change my workouts and fuel my body enough to build the muscle!

So I will push out the negative thoughts and focus on the 1st picture as my inspiration today and remember that could be me someday and keep in my mind that really those girls most likely don't look like that right at the moment either!

My workout plan of attack today is Legs/Calves/Abs my workout will be straight out of the Hardgainers book (I am week 6) thank god it will change again in another 2 weeks! Last Thursday I thought I was going to need a bucket next to the Smith Machine when doing my 10x10@120 Medium Stance Squats, your suppose to be able to do this without any rest between sets but I choked and gave myself 10 second rest periods. I wussed out, grrrr!

This is what the workout looks like:

10x10 Medium Stance (no rest)
10x10 Abs on a ball (1 minute rests)

15/20x2 Wide Stance (1 Minute Rest)
8x8 Calf Raises (30 Seconds)

When reading that you may think it is a piece of cake, well at least I did until last week until I upped my weights (trying to add weight every week) so that means this week I will really need a bucket!!!!

have a beatiful day, me and my big backside need to get around!

2009-01-19T18:30:00.001-08:00

Today I have been trying to find the rights words to put into this posting. I was reading a blog yesterday and I guess it made me do some thinking about what is beauty and how we are all so different. Can't you find something remarkable in almost everyone if you really take notice regardless of shape, size, skin color, hair color, eye color? And does beauty stop at the outer layer of a person, if you have nothing below the surface are you still beautiful? God has made each and everyone of us so different which makes us so unique, no 2 made alike.

Have we not all heard at one point someone say something starky about anothers outward appereance......for an example I have a old guy at the gym who constantly makes cracks about the women who are on the heavy side which is starting to make me wonder why is he so harsh with his words, sounds really the more I hear him speak that he is the one with the issues! You know when I was in Junior High I got cracks about looking like Olive Oil because I was so skinny which some don't understand can be hurtful also! Can you imagine being a Professional Womens BodyBuilder they have to have the thickest skin ever for that sport because of all the negative comments they have to endure, for those girls muscle is beautiful on a women and they strive for their own idea of perfection and beauty, different for these girls sets them apart from the pack.

When it comes right down to it if you are comfortable in your own skin that is wonderful, love yourself so what if you are a little different or your beauty doesn't fit into the norm. Beauty really is like they say in the eye of the beholder.

I found this poem online and thought I would share!

Different
by Vincen Tabatha

How are we so "different"?
If "different" is just a thing.
If we all have certain features,
What does "different" bring?

People filled with hatred,
Can't possibly see,
That there's not really "differences"
Between you and me.

Looks can't show "difference",
If they're just there to be seen.
If you don't look like someone else,
Why are they so mean?

If being "different" is what is wrong,
I'd rather not be right.
And I'd want to finish living,
Doing the "different" fight.

* Just my thought for today, if you at the gym today and you see an idividual working hard towards their own fitness goals tell them they look great and you can tell they have been working hard.......you just might make someones day!

Sunday Chiropractor Emergency Visit

2009-01-18T08:29:00.000-08:00

Ok this picture is not of me but this pretty much spells out how my neck is feeling this morning! In my efforts for killer Caps I have tweeked my neck, nothing new for me really but it hurts like hell this morning so I am very thankful that I have a great Chiropractor that is open 7 days a week! With a little snap, crackle, pop I'm sure pipes (that is my given nickname from the Chiro.) will be all good. I can't say enough good about going, I typically go at least once a week. If you start doing heavy squats and anything behind your head a good adjustment will save the day!

Just as an F.Y.I. my Chiroprator has told me under no uncertain terms am I allowed to do Shoulder Shrugs because of how bad they are for the neck.

Peace out got to crawl my way to the Doctors office!

Killer Caps

2009-01-17T16:14:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of Houng that I was mentally visualizing when doing my shoulder workout today, for shoulders hers are outstanding in my opinion!

Today's workout was pretty darn good if I must say so myself.......some guy at the Gym said I was an animal! Have you ever had one of those days that you just felt really good walking into the gym.......all things in order, a plan in hand, IPod working, Mojo in tow!

My Saturday plan was Shoulders, you know before I compete again which I'm thinking will be July I want Big old Caps! I like to hit shoulders from all angles and really make um hurt!

This is my Shoulder workout from today:

Shoulders Presses 4x10
Front Raises 4x10
10 Handstand pushups against the wall
Behind the neck presses 4x10
Rear Delt Fly's 4x10
Rear Delt Pulls 4x10
* ok the next move I don't have a name for but it was given to me by Melissa Frabbiele who is a IFBB Figure Pro........sit on a bench, weights starting down by your sides and do a lateral raise that goes all the way over your head and then back down......I do 4x10, no pink dumbbells either! sound easy try it!

After I completed my shoulders for kicks I took a 45lb plate and did back extensions and then some abs, topped off with 25 minutes of Cardio.

this is a YouTube video of the Rear Delt Pull that I did today!

Rear Delt move that I will try next Saturday!

Must be I just needed a day off from Training to make me bring it, see I'm one of those people that would prefer working out 7 days a week but I have learned that is not the smartest way for me too train being that I am an ectomorph and overtrain easily.......I have learned to listen a little better to my body and slow down and recover, workout smarter not just harder!

I think I will sign off and take a little nap, sleep is good for recovery also!

* one last thing when I was on the treadmill today at the gym I was speaking with a young girl who said a trainer told her the leg press machine would help her shed fat in her legs! I'm hoping she just misunderstood what the trainer was telling her, last time I checked that tones and shapes the muscle but if your looking to shed the fat you better stay with the cardio. Maybe I should think about becoming a trainer, just a thought!

Banned Substance

2009-01-15T19:49:00.000-08:00

I have been banned from one of my favorite treats. I really only eat them if I am in a pinch but I really do like them, so I'm sad that my family has told me that under no uncertain terms can I eat them anymore because of the foul order that fills the house when I do! I have to admit it is really, really nasty.......total FOF in public also, what in god's name do they put in these bars anyways? Sorry if this has been way to much information but my family wanted me to put a warning out to save some innocent people along the way!

Thursdays Post......just venting!

2009-01-15T18:17:00.000-08:00

Thursday what can I say but it started out just lovely (not) trying to collect unemployment for the 2 weeks I was off work during the Holidays which as it turns out is just the biggest pain in the arse ever! My call in time to claim my weeks of unemployed was actually yesterday needless to say we have soooo many people unemployed in this State you can't even get through to the automated system and trying to get a actual live person is a job in its self. Started trying again this morning at 8am and finally got someone to help me thank you jesus about time. After I hung up I called my Brother who got the permanent layoff from his job last week to let him know the procedure on filing. My brother I can tell is taking this pretty hard, 4 kids the prospect of no Insurance for the family and a bleek job market has got him shitting his pants! I hate that because with all the extra worry and stress I'm afraid it will be really hard on his heart because literally he is ticking time bomb.......he is no less then 350lb and I'm going on the light side, can't mow his own grass anymore or sit in a booth at a Restaurant, he sweats when walking at a regular pace, the medicines that he takes is insane for someone who is only 45! I can't say anything to him about his weight because he gets really mad when anyone comments on it, when we go out to eat I never comment on what he orders but he must feel self conscious because he is quick to point out that if I want to eat chicken breast and broccoli go right ahead but he's getting the Macho Nacho's with an extra side of sour cream. Do you ever feel like your watching someone you care about killing themselves slowly? Maybe that is a reason I have chosen my lifestyle, I see my Dad who is at least 350lb also and my brother and I just don't want that......I want to enjoy life, participate in activities! I think it has to be horrible being limited because of your health being poor due to your terrible eating habits and lack of exercise, for my brother I believe food is also a coping mechanism, he has a terrible amount of anxiety and is an overthinker (Brain never shuts up!) thats a family trait........anyways I guess I'm just writing this down as way of venting, I'm just a little sister who would like her brother to be happy and healthy for not just himself but for the family he will leave much to early if he doesn't get a grip on his overall health. Hoping that once he lands back on his feet it will bring him better work/life balance and he will have more time for working on himself.

The Arnold

2009-01-12T21:46:00.000-08:00

Wanted to post this Video that I found on YouTube for all the girls that are prepping for the Big Show and get them all pumped up! Hoping I can make it this year for the expo, and take in the Pro/AM figure shows oh and you know the people watching at this thing has to be awesome!

Also I wanted to give a shout out to the Muscle in the City girls! I'm betting they will come back from Columbus with a few juicy stories!!! Good luck ladies and train hard!

If anyone is looking for additional information regarding the Arnold Weekend I have the link below.......

http://arnoldsportsfestival.com/home2/

If you want a body like Monica don't eat like a Sumo Wrestler

2009-01-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

Sumo Wrestlers: This is How You Get Fat
There's only one sport where they actually aim to gain as much body fat as possible: Sumo Wrestling. According to this article - here is what a sumo wrestler does to get fat:

1. Skip breakfast. By depriving their bodies of food after eight hours of sleep, their metabolic rates stay low.

2. Exercise on an empty stomach. If their bodies have
no food, their metabolic thermostats are turned down even lower to conserve fuel.

3. Take a nap after eating. The Sumo secret for gaining weight is that, after eating, they sleep for at least four hours.

4. Eat late in the day. Going to bed with full stomachs means that their bodies must respond to the huge flood of nutrients with a rush of insulin, forcing their bodies to store some of it in the cells as fat instead of in the muscles and organs as nutrients.

5. Always eat with others in a social atmosphere. According to leading researchers, a meal eaten with others can be at least 44 percent larger and with 30 percent more calories and fat.

* Maybe in my next life that would be nice but in this one I will stick with a Figure Competitors Diet!

Sunday Night Workout

2009-01-11T19:41:00.000-08:00

Tonight was Leg Night at the Gym......I'm on week 4 of the Hardgainers Bodybuilding HandBook by Hugo Rivera. This is a 21 week program (note that I am only doing the Leg portion) tonight was Hamstrings/Calves/Lower Abs, this is a completely different workout then I have ever used but at this point I will try just about anything to get these legs growing! I had my husband take photo's a couple of weeks ago and hope to have him do progress shots about every 4 weeks so probably next week I will post some updated photo's.

I wanted to talk a little about my Sunday night motivator which is my buddy Angie. Angie is a special young girl.......she is 21, has a job, a cute little boyfriend, hangs at the Gym 5/6 days a week, lifts like a dude and I swear the girls got more confidence then anyone I know, for an example if you tell Angie "Hey Ang your looking great and those bicep are getting huge" her comment back to you would be "Yeah they are I look good" Tell me that and I probably would tell you Thanks but my butt is getting huge!!! My point here is that Angie has Down Syndrome and she is happy, confident and content with herself despite all of her challenges in life. If I had half the heart and determination as my friend Angie I think I would have already been to Nationals. I wonder why it is that most people can't find an inner peace or contentment with the way God made them? Sometime I look at Angie and I wonder who has the Handicap, her or me because see I doubt myself and my abilities and it is time to change that. I can do whatever I set my mind too, just ask Angie!

Wanted to post some Gym Photo's that I took tonight.......1st photo is of my good friends Debbie and Carolyn, might I add that Carolyn (Dark Hair) used to be a size 24! Yes people all things are possible even a 90 pounds weight loss if your really ready to change your lifestyle! The 2nd photo is of my buddy Angie doing abs and reading my HardGainers Book between sets!

2008 Competition Photo's

2009-01-10T22:24:00.001-08:00

My 1st Blog Post

2009-01-10T20:29:00.000-08:00

My real name is Lisa and I would like to put out into the Universe that my fitness goal for 2009 would be to compete at the National Level by the end of the year. I started competing in late September 2006. I'm really suprised that I had the balls to step on stage that first time being that I was so clueless about what it really took to be stage ready......that show I weighed in at a whopping 104lbs of no muscle, couldn't pose for crap and had no clue what ProTan was.......needless to say um didn't place so well! Each show I have done I feel that I have improved from the last and I believe with hard work, dedication and the belief that all is possible if you want it bad enough I can make my goal for 2009 happen.

You know a little over a year ago I was reading one of my favorite blogs and the writer challenged the readers to Butch Up and let her know who was reading her posts well I Butched Up .......so if anyone is reading this please do the same! I would love hearing from other Positive Fitness minded people that have great tidbits of knowledge to share.

Thanks,

Lisa (LAT GIRL)
* Just so you know I go by LAT GIRL because 1st it is my initials and 2nd whenever I compete my biggest supporter in the audience always yells out for me to spread my lats. love you honey!

Oh one last thing for the day if you walk backwards on a treadmill trying to be all cute at the Gym make sure your shoes are tied......yep that would be a note to myself!