Too much "cardio"....not for me (Part 2)

Part 2!  Here we go.  If you haven't read part 1 or forgot what it was about...you can refresh by clicking here. 

I am already getting e-mails and private messages (most from other group fitness instructors might I add) about how I am knocking on the group fitness world...blah blah blah.  Did you guys not read my part 1 blog????  Please read thoroughly before you send me such nonsense!!!  And the fact that I am NOT finished with the series.  There is more!  I'm a group fitness instructor myself so why would I know it???  Geez!  SMH!  ANYWAY...moving on.......

Ok, so I talked a little bit about what types of training/workouts I did.  WHen I FIRST started, I didn't know what the hell i was doing.  SO I started off with the group fitness classes.  Before that I was just walking on the treadmill and kind of watching what others were doing in the weights section and tried to mimic them.  I remember the first group fitness class I went to.  Bodypump.  A class using weights.  High rep lower weights.  You will not see anyone deadlifting anything over 150 in there.  Hell, I don't think I've seen anyone DL anything over 100.  Like I said because it's high reps...and at a pretty fast pace might I add.  I thought that this was "THE class".  That this class will get me toned and buff and lookin all hot.  Boy was i wrong.  Don't get me wrong, it's a GREAT class.  And sometimes if I want something different I'll take that class.  Just for the hell of it.  It's a good class! 

As I said in part one....i was only becoming a smaller version of my fat self.  The group fitness classes were a start for me.  It got me moving.  AFterall...ANY type of movement is better than just sitting on the couch.  But After about 5-6 months of nothing but treadmills, ellipticals, group fitness classes, stairmills, and the occasional dumbells, I came to a stall.  No matter what I did nothing seemed to work anymore.  I decided to invest in a personal trainer.  Now as we all know...personal trainers are expensive!  I had my "lasik eye surgery fund" stashed away.  I asked myself....no contacts/glasses or a better body?  I chose a better body and emptied my lasik fund and hired Jason Urbanski--the head trainer at the gym I was working out at.  Let me tell you....BEST investment I've ever made!  I told you guys before I've worked with other trainers before...which is why I was so hesitant about hiring another one.  I've been dissapointed before, but EVERYONE at the gym had good things to say about him.  So I decided to give him a month and "test him out".   I'm sorry.  I'm vain as hell and I wanted to look good.  I was sick and tired of being fat and "ugly." 

Here is the man I always referred to as SATAN.  This was March of 2010.   He is gonna KILL me for posting his pic, but whatever!  I want you guys to see the man who has changed my life!

I'm not gonna lie.  I hated him.  I thought he was mean, and hard.  but that's what i wanted.  I didn't want anyone to hold my hand and say everything will be ok.  He didn't.  He only pushed me harder and although till this day he denies it, I think he was trying to "break me".  He hasn't.  haha.  After 6 weeks we weighed in and I lost 19 lbs!!!!!  You see, not only was Jason a personal trainer, he was also a strength and conditioning coach.  TRUST me when i say they are different from your typical "follow you around the gym with a clipboard" personal trainer.  We trained 3 times a week.  A lot of those were consisted of extremely heavy lifting and his psycho conditioning workouts.  When I say psycho I mean PSYCHO.  Biggest loser workouts on TV has NOTHING on Jason Urbanski.  I would cringe everytime we had to lift heavy!  I thought I was gonna "bulk up." I was still doing a lot more cardio and doing group fitness classes.  But I began to have a lot of "aha" moments with him.  Here is a good example of "less is more".

For the longest time I would be doing these hour long cardio sessions.  Jason's words?  WASTE OF TIME.  The "steady" cardio.  Even the group fitness classes I have to admit was steady of moderate intensity.  This is why I like teaching spin.  For those who have taken my class know for climbs and attacks, I have my class load up as much as possible on resistance and pedal as hard as they can before the break where they "release" the pressure and resistance.  Kind of like sprinters.  For about 30 seconds to a minute they will run as fast and hard as they can until it's over and then they recover.  This is also known as the HIIT (high intensity interval training).  A method I like to use is go as hard as you can for a minute...till you're about to pass out...then for a minute recover...then repeat for about 10-12 times.  I don't know about you...but I prefer the sprinters body over the marathoners body.  If you like the "marathon body" look, then please...by all means proceed with your long cardio sessions.  To each its own. 

In my case the group fitness classes were not enough.  I had to get a trainer.  Of course being healthy and in better shape was a plus......but one thing I observed while training.  All those people who did hours and hours of endless cardio on the machines and hours and hours of group fitness classes...all looked the same.  No real changes in their physique.  yes, they might lose weight, but I never really saw the "transformations."  It was only those who incorporated weight training and worked with good trainers that I saw transformations starting to take place.  I am the perfect example.  Now....if you are one of those who had a great physique transformation with just group fitness classes alone and cardio alone, i applaud you.  But it wasn't working for me and based on what I observed at the gym (trust me I was there 5-6 days a week), I didn't see much of it.  Even the group fitness instructors who taught like a zillion classes a day all looked the same.  Again, I am NOT knocking anyone.  It's just NOT the look I wanted.  Incorporated with HEAVY weight training and MINIMUM cardio is when my body started to change.  Part 2 is long enough.  I feel like I'm rambling.  But I will end with this:  I've done it ALL!  From group fitness classes to P90X to infomercial stuff.  What did it for me was not just heavy lifting, but working with a strength and conditioning coach.  In part 3 of the series I will get into how strength and conditioning workouts have accelerated my fat loss AND how the "less is more" really does come into effect.   I will also talk about meeting new coaches who I thought I would NEVER find....and incorporating other new workouts.....even kettlebells.  I'm still hesitant to release the sports bra/shorts fat pics so I will leave with this.  Maybe in part 3 I'll have the guts to post the mortifying pics.

Before I even knew what a gym membership was:

And me today:

Part 3 coming soon which will consist of what I am doing NOW and what type of strength and conditioning workouts I am doing with hardly ANY cardio.  Just once a week.  =)  And I like that cuz i HATE cardio!!!!!

Too much "cardio"....not for me! (part 1)

Been some time since my last "rant" or "rave",  But today....I'm baaaccckkkk!  =)

SO you've heard the mainstream and the norm right?  Ya know...to lose weight, get in better health, you gotta do this, this, this, and that.  Meaning....excercise regularly, eat 5-6 small meals a day, eat lean protien, eat a lot of veggies, avoid too much starch, avoid too much "bad carbs", avoid sugar......blah blah blah blah blah.  Right?  This isn't rocket science.  We all know you have to eat right and workout regularly.  Unless you are the .01% who is genetically blessed and don't have to lift a finger and can eat all the pizza and french fries you want and still have the body of a greek God or greek Goddess.  Am I wrong?  =)

In this blog I want to talk about the workout aspect.  The diet part will come later as I am still in the experimenting phase of my current diet.  Yes it's working like a charm but I want to give it a go for a few more months.  But since my workouts have also been giving me amazing results....I will talk about that first.

So we all know that cinco de Mayo of this year I had my knee surgery.  To make a long story short, I am bone on bone and will need a full knee replacement in the future, but not now.  I had surgery for a torn miniscus and damaged cartlidge.  They pretty much want to do a second surgery where I need an "alignment osteotomy" and where they want to inject new cells to see if I can regrow new cartlidge.  Recovery for that?  about 9 months to a year.  No thank you.  I am JUST recovering from my surgery in May.

You guys know how frustrating it was for me not being able to get to the gym.  After all that hard work.  Losing about 80 lbs and was on my way to more leaness when the knee crap happened.  I probably gained about 10-15 lbs after my surgery.  My recent Vegas pics show that really well.  You can see the difference from last years Vegas pics and this years Vegas pics.

Vegas last year:  July 2010

And Vegas of this year.  July 2011

You can clearly see the difference.  ESPECIALLY in my midsection and I wish my legs would have shown in the second bikini pic, but it was HORRENDOUS.  They were all squishy and with no muscle tone.  About 4-5 months prior to surgery I didn't do any lower body workouts except the spin class I taught once a week but even in my class I didn't use much resistance.  It was hell!  Then after surgery of course I didn't do much except go to physical therapy and try to heal as fast as I could so that I can hit it hard in the gym again.  You can tell that I lost a lot of the muscle tone in my arms and my face looks "fuller" as well.  10-15 pounds does make a big difference.  I had the "squishy" look that I dreaded.  Well, my knee isn't 100% but I am able to do lower body that I couldn't do before.

Let's track back 2 years ago when I was about 80-85 lbs heavier.  My next blog I will show from where I started (yes the mortifying fat pics) and to where I'm at now.  WHen I first started I started with the group fitness classes.  I had to start somewhere right?  For about 6 months I did nothing but these classes and then some of my own cardio and weight lifting.  I was in the gym 6 times a week.  It was spin class after body pump after bodycombat after more bodypump then the elliptical then hitting the free weights (yes the dumbells).  I was at the gym sometimes 2 1/2-3 hours a day.  Yes I lost weight but to be honest I was only becoming a smaller version of my fat self.  I had no definition.  Yes I was getting smaller, but that wasn't the look I wanted.  I wanted the vascularity, the muscles popping.  One of my favorite female fitness model is Jamie Eason.  This is what she looks like.  I love her physique.  Not only is she beautiful on the outside, she is the most humble, sincere, and kind individuals I have ever met.  She is also a woman of faith and NOT ashamed to tell everyone that.

Jamie's physique is one I want to hopefully achieve or pretty well come damn close to it.

What I realized is that I was wasting my time doing too much cardio.  You may beg to differ and I've already gotten a lot of crap from people who tell me that I'm wrong.  I'm not saying that my methods of training will work for you or anyone else.  But this is MY body and this is what is working for me.  From doing cardio 5-6 times a week I now only do "cardio" once a week and that is when I teach my spin class on tues nights.  You will never see me on another cardio machine (unless I'm warming up for 5-10 min) or another cardio class unless I'm doing it just for fun (like I really miss the Kangoo Jumps class I used to take--because it really is a fun class).  That's another thing....if you are smiling and having "fun" then you're not doing it right.  You want real results?  The workouts you do then should want to make you cry.  Go hard or go home!  ANyway, Ill get more on that later.

WHat I really wanted was a TRANSFORMATION.  Not just a smaller version of my fat self.  The group fitness excersice classes were great and yes i was losing weight, but then I stalled.  I wasn't getting the results I wanted.  That's when I met Jason.  The man you guys know I refer to as Satan.  That man has changed my life.  He wasn't your typical personal trainer who just followed you around the gym with a clipboard checking your form and telling you which workouts to do (ok, well yeah he did those things too, but stay with me here, lol).  I've worked with LOTS of trainers before.  But never one like Jason.  In part 2 of this blog I'll go more into detail about the workouts and how it's changed my life but let me just conclude this blog by saying this:
You can do all the cardio till you are blue in the face and do all the group fitness classes till you're laying in your own puddle of sweat.  But that is NOT going to do it for you.  I know this from personal experience but also my circle of friends and family in my life who has done the same things I have, but then with one little change...has changed not only their physique, but the saying...LESS IS MORE really did apply.  Hell, I'm a group fitness instructor myself.  I am in NO WAY bashing group fitness classes.  They are a GREAT addition.  But those alone is not gonna do it for you if you want to change your body.  Yes, you will lose weight and be healthier, but if you want a true transformation and change your physique.....you need to incorporate LESS cardio and more strength training.  And No bodypump does NOT count.  I am probably back to my Vegas weight of last year if not more leaner.  I think that was when I was in the best shape of my life.  The vascularity in my arms are finally starting to slowly pop through which I NEVER had.  =)
Before you send hate mail and disagree with me, let me finish this series first.  Part 2 coming tomorrow or within the week when I have time to write again.  =)  Until then.....happy training everyone!!!!!

The NPC competition I went to

I had a chance to go to the NPC Maryland/East Coast classics competition yesterday (8/20/11).  I went to support my good friend Panny Powell.  This was her first competition and I know how hard she worked so I wanted to be there to support her.  It's been a while since I've last been to these competitions.  I used to be a regular when Monica Brandt did her Bodyrock shows at George Mason years back.  I went to every single one of them.  I really didn't know much about the bodybuilding world until I met my friend Kevin.  (For you WWE wrasslin fans, you know him as "Alex Riley", but he will always be Kevin to me).  I also went to the Arnold back in 2008 and that's when I decided to jump back into the working out craze that I am in now.  Here is Panny winning second in her class.  Again it's her FIRST show!!!

I got a chance to talk to some of the figure competitors there and they were very friendly and gave me some good insight.  I also have friends who compete and let me tell you that I KNOW all the blood, sweat, and tears they put into to get competition ready.  It's not easy.  Most of them have to give up a social life due to the rigorous amount of training they put into.  Most of all, the diet.  That's my weakness.  I'm sorry, but I love food too much.  =D  Then I saw Panny (who I KNOW loves food more than I do) make the sacrifice and disciplined herself to win second place in her class in her FIRST competition ever.  That just motivated me ten folds to get my ass in gear and get to it.

I have always talked about wanting to compete.  NO ONE took me seriously.  I don't think I even took myself seriously.  Or I got the giggles and smirks and even had people say things like "Pshhhh, you can't do that.  It's too strict!"  I've even had people tell me that you already have to be in a lean state to compete!  Um hello????  Did you forget that I stuck to my diet and worked out everyday to lose over 80 pounds????  Did you forget that even with a bum knee I kept working out?  Did you forget that even after knee surgery I was in PT two days after and back in the gym 2 weeks after?  Did you forget that there was a time in my life where I thought I was gonna die but working out actually saved me?  And now you're saying I don't have the dedication or discipline?????  THAT right there just fueled me more.  I even got looks at the competition when I said I was serious and wanting to get back into hardcore to get to where I need to be to compete.  Geez!  Oh ye of little faith?  That just motivated me MORE to prove them wrong.  You guys know me.  When people tell me I can't do it...I DO IT!  SO....countdown begins....BRING IT ON!

I also want to give shout outs to Lindsay Sollers and Pam Jaeger for also being my inspiration.  I see them daily in the gym working so hard and even when I was going back and fourth they would still give me advice and tips and tools to use to try and lean out.



Now instead of talking about it, it's now MY turn to give the blood, sweat, and tears.  I know I have a long way to go to get competition ready.  Whether it takes me 4 months or 4 years (Gawd, I hope not 4 years haha) I WILL get on that stage at least once.  Whether I place first, second, or last is not what is important to me.  What's important is that I do it and prove that I can do it and once again shut those doubters up!  Life is too short to always wonder.  I'm not wondering.  I am going to DO!  I know a lot of you will be along with me on this journey!!!!!  =D

Jeanie

Paleo? Please!

I'm not against any "diets" and I always tell people to do what works for them.  Some swear by the Paleo, south beach, Dukan, etc...etc.  That's all fine and dandy, but what irks me is people who belittle me or "condemn" me for not eating a certain type of way.  WHen it comes to diets I am the QUEEN BEE of them all.  Why?  Because I have tried them all!  From low carb to vegan to south beach to atkins to diets to go....yeah...you name it, I have tried it.  But experimenting and tweaking I know what works for me and what doesn't.  Perfect example comes from today when having a conversation with a couple who swears by the Paleo eating methods.  This one lady literally went postal on me because I was eating grains and dairy and said that I was being toxic to my body.  Um, seriously????

Then they continued to "school" me on how the "primal" eating is the way to go and how that's how the cavemen ate blah blah blah.  Ok, first of all.....we have all evolved!  We are NOT in cavemen time anymore.  So I simply and politely told them that if we were to eat like the cavemen did, then I guess we would have to train like them too.  Meaning no gym memberships, no cardio machines or classes and certainly no free weights.  Afterall, back then they [probably used heavy rocks as weights and ran for their lives when big beastly creatures were chasing them down, right?  =)  So if we were to clearly eat like them, then we should train like them too!  Needless to say, that shut them up real quick!!!

I've said this in my previous blog.  Don't go with "mainstream" all the time.  You need to find what works for you.  If what you are doing is working, then great!  Keep it up.  If not, then obviously there needs to be tweaking and adjustments.  I am constantly working on my training and eating.  As I said before, I think I finally found what is working for me.   This is still in the works.  We shall see.  So if ANYONE ever tells you you are doomed for life for not following a certain "protocol diet" DON'T LET THEM!  The choice is yours!  =) 

Kettlebells. Who would have ever thought???

One month of a different approach of training.  I can't believe it!  For the past two years I have been following the "mainstream" approach to fitness and health.  You know.....eat 5-6 meals a days, limit starches, no sugar, weight life, cardio, blah blah blah!  Though for that first year I got PHENOMENAL results, but I'm not gonna lie.  I kind of hit a stall.  A Plataeu.  A sudden stop.  Whatever you want to call it, I hit it.  Not to mention the knee surgery that totally put me a few steps back. 

Let me just say that this month of training alittle differently, changing up the way I eat, and talking to lots and various coaches/trainers.....I think I found what works for me.  Let me tell you, I had to pick brains on a LOT of people.  Some criticized me.  Some told me I was nuts.  Some told me I was going into information overload....some even told me I had way too many teachers.  My thoughts on that?  Pshhhhhh!  My opinion on that is, fitness and health, like medicine or any other field, requires a lot of information.  There is always the "new".  I mean when fitness first started it was all about cardio.  then it was all about weight training.  then it was all about "muscle confusion."  Then it was all about crossfit.  Yeah, no wonder everyone is so confused.  The way I feel is that the more you learn and the more you soak in, the more you'll be educated and the more you'll know what works....especially for you!  I wanted to know more about functional movement training, and learn about TRX training (which by the way wasn't for me), and other methods that will improve ME!

It's always good to try new things.  With trying new things, I am also allowing myself to get out of my "comfort zone".  My new training regimen is now doing kettlebell workouts.  I knew what they were.  I just never thought much of it.  I always looked at it as big ball things with loopy handles.  I figured I can always do stuff with heavier dumbells.  I mean who needed stupid kettlebells?  It wasn't until I met someone who is a nationally ranked kettlebell champion.  At first I was like "what the hell?  They have that?"  Oh yes they do.  The more I spoke with this individual, the more intrigued I became.  Little did I know that there is a kettlebell sport.  With the knee getting better, I wanted to try it.  I even talked to my trainer about it and he just kind of shrugged it away.  Then I figured here I am training with one of the best trainers I've ever worked with who knows so much, but if he is shrugging it away, then why should I care?  But something kept me interested.  So much that I contacted a friend who lives in another state that owns his own kettlebell gym for some guidance.  He has competed in many bodybuilding competitions and he was actually one of my mentors and I still go to him for advice.  He said now a days kettlebell training is pretty much the only type of training he does of course with functional training.  I wanted to take that next step.  He actually knew of someone in my area and told me I should check it out.

I have been meeting with my new kettlebell coach for two weeks now.  It's only been two weeks so I am still VERY raw.  The first day I was all over the place!  He probably had a few good laughs when he went home.  Because i looked and felt ridiculous, but let me tell you....it was probably one of the hardest workouts I've ever done.  It looks so easy!  But it's NOT!!!!!  I have committed myself to this new trainer (yes I am cheating on current trainer).  For those who know me know how impatient I am.  I wanted to perfect the form and learn this like yesterday.  Two weeks later and I am still struggling to get the right form.  This is a new task for me.  I am going to stick with it until I perfect this!  Thank God I have such a patient coach.  He probably gets so frustrated with me.  haha.  But I will make him proud!  Probably going to step it up a notch and add more days to train.  I can't wait! 

Also, another thing I wanted to add is that I think I am at my leanest now than I've ever been.  ONE MONTH of totally different approach!  I'm going to give it a few months and see how this goes.  You have to find what works for you.  DOn't always listen to the "mainstream."  I think I finally found what works for me.  Though I may not be as "cut" as i once was, it's exciting that a lot of my smallest clothes are fitting loose.  Maybe that's a female thing.  haha.  More updates to come. 

Good girls TONE, bad girls LIFT!

So I hear this time after time and it just plain pisses me off and I wanna smack these "chicks" who just have NO FRIGGIN CLUE!!!!  "I wanna tone!"  "I don't like to lift heavy because it makes me bulky..."  wah wah wah!  shut up already!  It's not the lifting heavy that makes you look "bulky" but it's the FAT layered on top the newly built beautiful muscle that makes you look bulky!  To look lean you have to also burn FAT but cardio alone will NOT shed all the fat!

Now, I'm no personal trainer....nor am I a fitness expert, but I know what works and I know that you females will NOT become Mr Olympia by lifting weights!  Yes to shed fat, you do need cardio, but not as much as people make it seem or THINK.  My trainer has been saying this over and over and over again.  And for the first time....I listened to him.  For the past 3 weeks I have limited cardio and actually increased in my lifting and included more functional movement training (thanks Joe for helping me out there).  I think I have leaned out faster and more in these 3 weeks alone than the year and a half I spent on hours of WASTED cardio and most important wasted TIME!  "Jeanie you finally LISTEN!"  was my trainers response.  Now I know. 

I have conversations time after time with a lot of females who always say "Weight lifting makes me bulky."  Well, yes it does....at first.  I had that same problem.  But it's because of the FAT.  To lean out, you need the muscle to help shed fat more efficiently.  Cardio alone will NOT lean you out.  I mean it might, but unless you are including weight training, you will always have that "squishy" look.  "Skinny fat" is what my trainer calls it.  I agree.  I do cardio maybe only twice a week.  Tues nights when I teach my spin class and maybe on thursdays if I feel like it.  Mon and Wed I train with Satan and all we do is lift heavy.  If you see me training you KNOW how we do it.  The only form of "cardio" is the first 5 minutes he has me on that damn Jacob's ladder.  The rest of the days on my own I will do a functional training that Joe sends me or on my own do heavy lifting again.  Oh lets not forget the diet.  Just get rid of the processed crap and you're good.  I will blog about that another day.

Just as the title says...."Good girls tone (gag), but the bad girls LIFT."  The reason why a lot of women (like the ones you see on oxygen magazine or fitness magazine...hell even the celebrities) look "toned" is because they LIFT!  You don't get muscle tone by "toning".  So challenge yourself and get off the stupid ellipticals, get out of your comfort zone, and try something out of the oridinary.  Try lifting heavy and actually try something like HIIT or functional movement training and I guarentee you WILL get results!  It took me over a year and a half to figure this out and actually listen.  lol!  =) 

I am including new training methods to my regimen and actually working with new coaches.  Let's see what the next 3 months brings!  =)  I am going to give it 110% and push ten folds!  =)

Why I don't beat around the bush.....and why I don't take life for granted

"Have you ever noticed that Rolls Royce and Bentley don't have commercials? REASON: They know the value of their product brings customers to them. LESSON: When you know your value, you don't have to beg people to like you, to be your mate, to spend time with you or to love you. Be confident in who GOD made you to be. Everyone can't afford the luxury of your friendship."

This quote was posted as a FB status of my best friend.  I was at a very low point in my life when I read that.  And it's sad that reading a QUOTE of all things made me realize that the QUOTE is exactly right!!!!  It's so true.  "Everyone can't afford the luxury of MY friendship."  I know what kind of person I am, and so do those who are close to me.  They KNOW my flaws, my weaknesses, my strengths, what pushes me and most important....what keeps me going.  

"Don't take life for granted."  So true.  Not everyone was ever faced with the questions of "Will I live to see tomorrow?"  or "How much longer do you think I have to live?"  Unless you have, you have NO IDEA how precious everyday of living is.  I have been there!  Not everyone knows my story.  Hell, not even my own family knows the whole story.  I plan to keep it that way.  Only those extremely close to me know which is why they get it.  I'm not here to have people feel sorry for me or give pity or anything like that.  WHat I want is people to understand.  There is a reason why I don't waste my friggin time.

When you don't know if you will live to see the next year, you do everything to live life to the fullest and how you dreamed of.  Now you may not accomplish it all, but at least you tried right?  This is why I don't have time for drama, BS, and most important, ignorant people.  I try to see the good in everyone.  I even ask myself "Was it me?"  "What did I do wrong?"  NOTHING!  It's 99% of the time them.  lol.  This is why I have goals and accomplishments I want to achieve.  Also a reason why I am soooo hard on myself and push myself.  People know....I AM EXTREMELY IMPATIENT.  =P  But if you were ever told in your life that you may lose your life.....your mentality changes.  You want to do everything and grasp everything....before it's too late.

This is also another reason why I tend to latch onto people.  If I meet good people, I want to be around them.  I like to surround myself with positive energy, laughter, and happiness.  You never know when the last time you'll see them again.  That goes the same with relationships.  Ok, I am 32 years old.  I am too old for games.  The play hard to get or let him chase mumbo jumo is just stupid if you ask me.  I mean seriously?  We are not in high school anymore.  Yet these guys like to play these silly games.  If I like a guy I will LET THEM KNOW.  I think the "wait for him to call or wait for him to contact you" is just silly.  I don't waste my time.  If you don't like me, then I'll know.  I've been given EVERY excuse from the "I'm so busy with (insert ten gazillion things here)" to the "it's not you, it's me..."  LOL!  REALLY?  Yeah at first i get pissed, but then I get over it.  They just weren't that into me.  Like I said, life is too precious to sweat the stupid things.  Especially guys who just don't know what they want.  "Everyone can't afford the luxury of your friendship."  Touche, my friend....touche!

Yeah yeah...all this talk about life and death etc.  Like I said, only a few know and maybe one day...my REAL story will be out.  But not till I accomplish everything first.   This is to prove my point.  Things will come your way.  Even things you don't want.  But if you put your heart and soul into it....it WILL be accomplished.  God has been by my side this whole time.  Of course ALL THE TIME I ask "Why God, why????"  But then I am reminded....Just leave everything to God.  He will take care of the rest!  =)

I will end with three of my favorite quotes which also my mentor Jamie Eason has posted.  I look up to her because she has accomplished so much in her life.  She's battled cancer, survived, reached her goals and is still living to tell.  She is also a woman of faith and I admire that highly about her.  =)  She is one of the true inspirations that gave me hope.  Because through her battles, she has conquered also.  Thank you Jamie!  =)

Someone may be faster or look better but absolutely no one will beat me in conviction and determination!

"You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage them." - unknown

"The task ahead of you is never as great at the Power behind you!" - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Bring it! Or shall I say bringing it! haha! =)

Tomorrow starts the day.  TO what you ask?  New beginnings, new trainings, and taking my workout/training level up a notch (or a few).  Not only will I be working with my trainer at Gold's whom you all know I refer to as Satan, but I will be getting coached from TRX guru Tony C. and coaching from the one and only Joe D.  Yes, they are both in different states, but "online coaching: goes a long way.  I can't wait to get started. 
On top of that I am going to be working with a KB coach here in northern va.  So buh bye to social life!  =) 

There is a reason why I am doing all these different types of training.  Number one....I love Gold's and my trainer (who has helped me shed close to 80 lbs), but I need new things.  I need that extra umph to prepare me for what's coming up ahead.  Can you believe there are STILL people being negative about me and about the goals I am trying to accomplish?  I've always wanted to try and be in a fitness/figure competition.  You have no idea the looks of disgust and doubt I've gotten from people.  You know me......I am here to prove them wrong!  If I don't compete, you better believe I will look like a competitor!  I already am!

Not too many people know my life or the struggles I've been through.  And I don't want anyone to know.  Not even my own parents.  I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me nor do I want anyone's pity.  I know who I am and I know this is why I have to prove to MYSELF that I can do this.  I have the BEST support system in the world!  My awesome friends and family!  There are only a very few who have been by my side since day 1.  =)  For the VERY few that know, I have been sick the past few years.  I won't go into anymore detail, but it took me getting sick to realize how strong I can be and if I put my heart and mind to it, and with the grace of God.....ANYTHING is possible.  Even beating out this "illness".  =)

I am going to repost a quote a friend of mine posted:

"Before you assume, learn the facts.
Before you judge, understand why.
Before you hurt someone, feel.
Before you leave, commit to staying."

This is so true.  Over the past few months, there has been a lot of negativity.  Well, no more!  I am getting rid of all the negativity!  

WIth new business endeavors coming my way and with this new training schedule, my ENTIRE story will be heard.  No I do not want to be in the spotlight or am an attention seeker.  I know there are LOTS of people out there like me.  When you feel there is no hope, like no one cares, etc...etc.  Well, wake up call was WHO CARES?????  I am NOT doing this for THEM, but I am doing this for ME!!!!!  To prove to MYSELF that I can do it!  There are things on my to do list to check off before I die.  You better believe i am going to live as long as possible and accomplish these goals.

 

I will end with this:  "FAR FROM WHAT I ONCE WAS BUT NOT YET WHAT I'M GOING TO BE!"  Just a little longer and yes, i will get there.  If you are reading this blog right now, you have probably come along with me on my journey so far.  I thank you for the support and encouragement.  I am not through yet!  Come along with this journey with me as I accomplish more goals....bum knee and all (which by the way is healing real nice)  =)   

Good info if you eat yogurt

~~ Here's an article by fat loss expert Joel Marion and his take on yogurt.  i agree with him!  I was eating yogurt like dannon, organic, and yoplait etc etc forever!  No wonder my fat loss was coming to a halt.  ALL the hidden SUGARS!  DOn't fool yourselves.  I made the switch and it made a WORLD of a difference.  I always thought those other yogurts were "healthy".  Not so much.  Reality check!!  Read on my friends!  =)

 Joel says:

A few weekends ago I was in LA with my buddy Vince “No Nonsense” Del Monte and a few other fitness friends for a marketing conference, and upon arriving at our hotel the very first thing Vinny and I did was take a taxi run to the grocery store. 

Now, generally we’d be a little more laid back when traveling for the weekend, but fact is we’re both currently “in training” for an upcoming deadline and we know that we’ll make the best food choices when we’re in control of the menu.
So we hit the grocery store, and one of the things I happened to pick up was yogurt.
You see, yogurt can be both delicious and healthy, but the problem is that most people are mistakenly buying yogurt that is TERRIBLE for their health and waistline, even though it’s touted as “healthy as can be”.
Take for example, this label from a popular “low fat” yogurt:

Sounds like a healthy option…”low fat yogurt”.  But no.  33 grams of carbs, 27 grams of sugar (most of which is dreaded high fructose corn syrup), and only 5 grams of protein.  That is, essentially, a recipe for fat storage despite the fact it’s “low fat”.

So, what type of yogurt should you be eating?  Without a doubt the answer is plain Greek yogurt.  Compared to the above, plain Greek yogurt has 6xs the protein and 1/3 as much sugar (which is simply the naturally occuring milk sugars lactose and galactose).

That’s 31 grams of protein per 8 oz and just 12 grams of low-glycemic carbs!

Need something a little sweeter than plain yogurt?  Throw some mixed berries in (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, etc) and/or sweeten it a tad with some Splenda or Stevia.  DELICIOUS.

This is one of my favorite snacks throughout the day, and it packs a ton of high quality nurtients in to a very filling meal.

Take home message:  Ditch the sugar-laden “junk” yogurt and go with delicious, thick, plain Greek Yogurt instead (look for the 0% fat variety).

So the hot new guy at the gym just so happens to my my hot new neighbor! =)

As I went to check the mail after I get home from the gym today...behold the same guy I was gawking at the gym is walking towards me.  So happens, that this new hot guy at the gym is my hot new neighbor.  LOL.  And before all you guys go on talking....remember...I LOOK and admire.  I don't chase (anymore).  Lesson learned on that because the excuses you will get if you start chasing is "I am just too busy with (list the 10-20 things they are busy with here)."  I thought that if you like someone you are SUPPOSED to show interest.  Why play games?  So stupid if you ask me.  Anyway, whatever...that's for another blog.  Back to focusing on MY fitness goals and back to hot boy AND new neighbor.  LOL.

SO at the mailbox this is what's said....

him:  (yeah sad that I didn't even ask for his name.  Maybe I just got "lost" in his blue eyes.....haaaaa!)  Hey!  You're that chick at gold's!
me:  Why, yes I am
him:  you're that chick that trains with that dude with all the tattoos!
me:  I am her
him:  He's intense!
me:  yes he is.  but i would not have it any other way!  that dude has changed my life!
him:  yeah, my buddy and i always talk about you.  you are probably one of the hardest working in that gym.  EVERYONE talks about you!
me:  huh?  what?  why?
him:  no it's a good thing.  you work so hard and you always look like you're gonna kill someone.
me:  haha no.  i only wanna kill my trainer...well at that time.
him:  well, keep it up.  you look great! maybe we can train together when you're not busy training with your trainer.

hehe.  wow.  That made my day.  I know it's stupid, but the fact that people notice how hard I work and how badly I want to get where I want to be.....it makes me happy and motivates me more.  I am now dedicated and determined.  Since my knee is healing and getting better day by day, I am going to start training harder and eating leaner.  My goal is to compete in a figure competition.  I have a friend who is training to compete in her first competition and she inspires me everyday so I thank you for that Panny!  =)  I am in the talks with a wonderful person who is not a stranger to the bodybuilding/figure competitions.  Hopefully with his help and training regimen which will include more tabata training and funtional movements workouts this will be a different concept with me.  He owns 2 kettlebell gyms and I know he will also incoporate KB workouts which is TOTALLY new to me.  i can't wait to start this journey.  Wait...I already have.  Wish me luck.  Also, anyone else who has been in competitions.....any advice to this newbie would be great!  Thanks!  =)

PS.  I know i was supposed to blog about part 2 of "He's just not that into you" but in due time.  Right now, my goals are more important!  hehe.

Is a slow metabolism the REAL reason you can't lose weight?

Here is a GREAT article from Tom Venuto.  AN expert fat loss coach who I admire and get advice from while still continuing with my fitness goals!  Enjoy!

QUESTION: Tom, we all know people who eat recklessly yet are very lean. My ex-husband seemed unable to put on ANY bodyfat whatsoever. At first I credited that to him being a very active athlete. But after spine surgery, he had to stay home for a year, did nothing but lay on the couch all day, play video games and eat his head off. He STILL didn't gain a pound! I know more men like this than women, but I do know a few women who seem "blessed" with naturally slim figures, even though they don't watch their diet or exercise.
On the other hand, we all know individuals who seem "cursed" and will tend to pack on weight even with a reasonable diet. So here is my question: those real life examples seem to strongly demonstrate a wide gap in metabolism between individuals. Do you accept and acknowledge that?
I strongly believe that I have a "slow metabolism" in the sense of needing very few calories to maintain my weight, hence the obligation of a very low calorie diet to achieve a deficit and lose weight. I'm more than willing to accept that as a mere belief (given a better explanation), rather than a biological fact, and replace it with a more positive thought. But please help me understand if I truly have a slow metabolism and need to work around it, or if I've got the whole concept wrong and need to re-frame completely?
ANSWER: First, let me mention that people can eat "recklessly" in the sense that you see them eating "junk" food all the time and they don't gain weight. That doesn't seem fair and it's a natural reaction to think they must have great genetics or a fast metabolism.
Many people have the idea stuck in their heads that junk food automatically turns into fat. That's not the case. Excess calories cause weight gain, not specific foods per se. There are plenty of people out there who aren't so strict with their food choices (food quality), but they don't overeat (food quantity), so they stay slim, it's that simple.
People will always be confused about this apparent paradox until they look at the big picture and get clear on the fact that weight loss is a calories in versus calories out equation.

With that said, yes there CAN be large differences in metabolism from person to person, and yes some people do need fewer calories to maintain their weight - especially women and smaller-framed people.
However, most people don't even understand what metabolism means, so they attribute the differences in calorie needs to genetics.
Here's most people's metabolism perception:
"Good genetics = fast metabolism"
"Bad genetics = slow metabolism"
The truth is, the genetic (relative) differences in basal metabolism between any two individuals at the same body weight and body composition are very small.
What a "fast" or "high" metabolism really means is that someone burns a lot of calories every day - at rest (basal metabolic rate or BMR) and / or including ALL activity (total daily energy expenditure or TDEE). When you say you have a slow metabolism, all you are saying is that you aren't burning very many calories.
We all have different energy needs, and those needs are influenced the most by body size (especially fat-free mass) and activity, not genetics.
Here's the metabolism reality:
Big person = faster metabolism
Small person = slower metabolism
Active person = faster metabolism
Sedentary person = slower metabolism
One female, who is larger and more active, might be burning 2500 calories a day, while a smaller, less active female might burn only 1900 calories per day. One male, who is larger and more active, might be burning 3200 calories a day, while a smaller, less active guy might only burn 2500 calories per day.
The important thing to know is that the person with the higher calorie expenditure burns more calories primarily because he or she is larger, has more muscle and is more active, not from being "blessed" with a fast metabolism.
But what about genetics? Aren't some people born with faster or slower metabolisms?
Yes. But... after you adjust for body weight/body size, the gap in Basal metabolic rate (what you could attribute to genetics) is usually very small. If two people are identical in body weight, lean body mass and activity level, they will usually have close to the same BMR and total calorie expenditure.
Research suggests that there are small differences in BMR from person to person. But most studies say this "inter-individual variance" in metabolic rate is only 3-8%.
So, even though they have identical body weights and activity levels, two females could have differences like these:
Female A could have a BMR of 1475 calories per day (with a TDEE of 2200)
Female B could have a BMR of only 1350 (with a TDEE of 2000)
Female B would be correct in saying she inherited a slower metabolism, relatively speaking. But does this mean that her metabolism causes her to be fat or prevents her from losing weight? Nope - there's only a slight difference in metabolism between the two women who are the same size.
If genetic differences in metabolism are so small, and a slow metabolism is not the problem, then why is it so darn hard for some people to lose weight?
Well, it involves a person's entire lifestyle and all their habits put together and how that affects the energy balance equation. The complete answer fills a whole book. It involves behavior and psychology as much as physiology and it's much more complex than just keeping track of calories in versus calories out. However, it all starts with that simple math equation.
Most people get the math wrong and they have no idea how to customize nutrition for their body type and activity level or how to properly troubleshoot slow fat loss or fix plateaus.
A small female who is burning only 1900 calories per day or so doesn't have a whole lot of room to work with, nor a lot of room for error with calorie miscalculations (or cheating), does she? A 500 calorie deficit puts her at only 1400 calories per day and that's for only a 1 pound per week weight loss.
Since most people are not consistent with their diet and they under report food intake, we can assume female B is probably eating an extra 200 or 300 calories a day that went unaccounted for (and that's me being nice), so now she's on target to lose only a half a pound a week, less than she wanted (almost barely noticeable to some, and could easily be masked by water weight gain, showing no loss on the scale).
At that rate, she might get really frustrated and start blaming her metabolism, not realizing that (1) a pound a week is reasonable progress for a woman her size, (2) she simply didn't stick to her prescribed calorie allowance.
Furthermore, maybe she was only focused on diet and didn't realize that she could add weight training and cardio and increase her calorie expenditure/metabolism by hundreds of calories that way.
But aren't there ways to increase your metabolism?
Yes, you can increase your metabolism, or at least prevent most or all of the slowdown that usually happens from dieting. But you have to attack it from BOTH angles: nutrition and physical activity. If you try to lose weight with diet alone, your metabolism will usually get slower, not faster.
One way to increase metabolism is through weight training and increasing your lean body mass. However, you'd have to gain quite a bit of muscle for this to really make a difference in your resting metabolic rate. The weight training is crucial either way though. Training does boost metabolism for a short time after each workout, it burns a lot of calories and you need the resistance training just to prevent loss of lean body mass while you're dieting.
Another way to increase your metabolism is to increase ALL your daily activity: In addition to the weight training, add some kind of cardio or metabolic training at least a few times per week. On top of that, all your daily walking, recreation, work and housechores adds up more than you'd imagine (it's called non exercise activity thermogenesis or N.E.A.T.) Don't just think about "exercising more" think about "becoming less sedentary."
A third way to keep up your metabolism is proper nutrition. Extreme starvation diets will cause quick weight loss in the beginning, but can actually slow down your metabolism later on, so a conservative cut in calories is best. A higher protein diet is helpful because it protects lean body mass in a calorie deficit and has a higher thermogenic effect. There are some foods, such as hot peppers, or drinks such as green tea, which are reputed to be thermogenic. Unfortunately the effect is quite small, so don't bother looking for "magic foods" or "magic pills."
Last but not least, here's the big metabolism myth that most people find hard to believe:
Research proves that overweight and obese people actually have a FASTER metabolism than lean people. How is that even possible? As mentioned above, larger body = higher calorie expenditure at rest and during exercise.
A lot of people don't believe me when I tell them this, so I've posted a study below that scientifically confirms how overweight people have faster metabolisms than smaller, thinner people: Energy Expenditure Is Very High in Extremely Obese Women, Sai Krupa Das, Edward Saltzman et al, J. Nutr., 134:1412-1416, 2004, Tufts University, Boston, MA
To test the hypothesis that total energy expenditure (TEE) and resting energy expenditure (REE) are low in extremely obese individuals, factors that could contribute to maintenance of excess weight, a cross-sectional study was conducted in 30 weight stable, extremely obese women [BMI (mean ± SEM) 48.9 ± 1.7 kg/m2]. TEE was measured over 14 d using the doubly labeled water method, REE and the thermic effect of feeding (TEF) were measured using indirect calorimetry, and activity energy expenditure (AEE) was calculated as TEE -- (REE + TEF). Body composition was determined using a 3-compartment model. Subjects were divided into tertiles of BMI (37.5--45.0; 45.1--52.0; and 52.1--77.0 kg/m2) for data analysis. TEE and REE increased with increasing BMI tertile: TEE, 12.80 ± 0.5, 14.67 ± 0.5, and 16.10 ± 0.9 MJ/d (P < 0.01); REE, 7.87 ± 0.2, 8.78 ± 0.3, and 9.94 ± 0.6 MJ/d (P < 0.001), and these values were 29--38% higher than published means of measured TEE in nonobese individuals. No significant differences were observed among BMI tertiles for AEE, TEF, or physical activity level (PAL = TEE/REE, overall mean 1.64 ± 0.16). The Harris-Benedict and WHO equations provided the closest estimates of REE (within 3%), whereas the obese-specific equations of Ireton-Jones overpredicted (40%) and Bernstein under-predicted (21%) REE. Extremely obese individuals have high absolute values for TEE and REE, indicating that excess energy intake contributes to the maintenance of excess weight. Standard equations developed for non-obese populations provided the most accurate estimates of REE for the obese individuals studied here. REE was not accurately predicted by equations developed in obese populations.
What's the bottom line?
A slow metabolism is not the reason most people are overweight. In fact, if you're overweight, you have a higher metabolism than smaller, lighter people. That's good news because it will actually be easier to achieve a large calorie deficit which means you can lose fat a lot faster in the beginning.
Each person is operating within their own unique calorie equation, so never try to follow a generic, one-size fits all program. Don't compare yourself to other people (and especially, if you're female, don't ever compare yourself to men). Customize your own program by pinning down the right amount of calories for your body size... your body type... your gender... and your activity level. Follow your plan consistently, tweaking the calories consumed and calories burned weekly as needed and the fat always comes off.


Until next time....

Train hard and expect success,

Tom Venuto
Fat Loss Coach

He's just not that into you Part 1

"He's just not that into you"  excerpts from Greg Behrendt's book.

Introduction:
You are all dating the same guy.

Hey, I know that guy you're dating.
    Yeah, I do.  He's that guy that's so tired from work, so stressed about the project he's working on.  He's just been through an awful breakup and it's really hitting him hard.  His parents' divorce has scarred him and he has trust issues.  Right now he has to focus on his career.  He can't get involved with anyone until he knows what his life is about.  He just got a new apartment and the move is a bitch and he has all this furniture to buy/put together/rearrange, etc.  As soon as it all calms down he'll leave his wife, girlfriend, crappy job.  God, he's so complicated.
    He is a man made up entirely of your excuses.  And the minute you stop making excuses for him, he will completely disappear from your life.  Are there men who are too busy or have been through something so horrible that makes it hard for them to get involved?  Yes, but there are so few of them that they should be urban legends.  For as already suggested, a man would rather be trampled by elephants that are on fire than tell you that HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU.

    The introduction above.....yeah!  Sheesh.  I read this book once, but I had to read it again to get that aha moment.  You know they even made a movie about this book right?  haha.  To all my fellow ladies.  Let me just tell you that I have spoken with most all my male friends about this subject matter.  (and you guys know I have more male friends than female friends).  I wanted to know what they REALLY thought and I'm not gonna lie, wanted advice.  And guess what?  To my dismay...they were ALL spot on and said the same thing.  "Jeanie, if we're not pursuing you.....WE'RE JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU."  or "We MIGHT be into you, but we're either looking for someone better OR we already found someone better." 

I will continue on tomorrow with ALL the lines guys will tell you when they are just not that into you.  Yes it comes from the book, but also based on the chats I've had with my guy friends.  It's seriously amazing how blind I was and how much "excuses" I made. It also makes me sick because as much as I hate to admit it, they (the guys) were all right.  smh.  But I know they are being brutally honest because they are looking out for my best interest.  Yes, I have the most awesome friends who will actually tell me the truth even if it's something I don't want to hear.  So ladies and gents (but mostly to ladies), a series of blog posts will be going up regarding this matter to save you (and admittingly ME) from making the same mistakes over and over again. 

TO be continued tomorrow..........

Back to write

Ok, so it's been quite a while since I've "blogged".  It was one of my "new years resolutions" to keep current with my blogging.  FAIL!  See?  this is why I don't make new years resolutions. 

It's about 2 am and I can't sleep.  I haven't been sleeping well at all lately.  Which is why i am usually up in the wee mornings baking and creating healthy recipes.  Hey, Id might as well make use of my "free" time right?  =)

I guess my ADD is getting out of control.  Too much on my mind all at once.  The main thing?  My knee surgery.  Yes it's the scope surgery, but the doctor doesn't know since I have 1.  meniscus tear, 2. completely worn and damaged cartiledge, and 3.  osteochondritis dissecans (which she says is common in race horses)  oh yay!  She said that's how hard I've been working and putting wear and strain on my knee.  For those who know me, know that I push 100%!  ESPECIALLY at the gym.  Yes I do Satan's psycho workouts and yes, even signed up for the tough mudder in October.  Why do I push myself so hard you ask?  Lots of reasons.
    The fact that my doctor saying that I MAY need several surgeries is really getting to me.  That means more recovery time which means more time out of the gym.  This whole not being able to work out is seriously brigning me down.  Yes, I know the the gym and working out has consumed my life.  It has to.  Please don't say things like "Oh jeanie, you need to rest, you'll be back, you will be ok...."  blah blah blah.  You just don't understand!  You don't understand what it was like being me before.  This is what makes me HAPPY.  Yes, working out SUCKS (especially with Satan), but after the workout you're on a high!  Like you accomplished something.  Like you are ready to take on the world.  The endorphin high is what I constantly seek which is why I am always going back for more.  Like for some people who have families with kids, spouses etc...that's what makes you happy right?  You have a dog or pet you love....that's what makes you happy right?  You have a motorcycle you like to take rides on when the weather is nice...that's what makes you happy right?  Well, the gym and working out and constantly pushing myself is what makes ME happy.  yes I know I complain of how much "Satan" tortures me, but it's THAT torture that got me in the best shape and keeps me going to get in even better shape and work to get a better physique.  I still have a long way to go.  But this surgery is definately going to set me back for a while.  Am I psycho?  Probably!

This is probably another reason why I have failed in relationships.  Yes I am putting it out there.  On FB yes, I talk about my workouts, my rants of stupid people pissing me off, my millions of pro athlete "boyfriends", and in general, lots of nonsense stuff.  I know most are ridiculous and I am probably hidden from most of my friends newsfeeds.  I don't care.  It's my way of "therapy".  Just like this blog.  One thing i don't do is talk about my relationships.  I give that respect to the person and to myself.  Oh trust me...I could write a book about the guys I've dated and how I've been screwed over, or how so and so was the best boyfriend I had, or how that was a "FWB" timeframe, etc etc...but I won't.  Although stay tuned for upcoming blogs because yes I will totally go Taylor Swift on some of these tools, gents, and a**holes I've dated or "hung out" with. My friend Shannon told me I should become a professional blogger.  I don't know about professional, but yes, I think i will blog more often.  It really is theraputic.  I feel better already!  =)

Now back to this surgery (see?  told you I was ADD), I am scared.  Scared that it will be more than what it really is.  Scared that it will be a long time for recovery.  Scared that this workout postponement will get me fat again.  (you have NO IDEA so please don't act like you do know--not a lot has been in my shoes--those who went to middle school and high school with me KNOW...because you've seen it).  But I've got awesome friends.  Once again, the support and love shown is overwhelming.  I have the best friends in the world and I thank God everyday for good people like you in my life.  Watch for more blogs because yes I will be writing a lot more.  For my sanity at least.  Who needs a shrink when you can blog?  haha.  SAVE MONEY!  BLOG!  It really does help!  =) 

My thoughts on tonight's Grammy's

So tonight I watched the Grammy's.  I get excited because I love to see some of my favorite artists perform.  Some songs I've never heard of (meaning literally the ENTIRE country artists), and most I have heard (thank you popular radio). 
Here are my thoughts on what I saw tonight.  Everyone is different and may have thought the same or have other opinions.  This is mine so don't hate!  =)

1.  Lady Gaga was actually pretty "tame" this year.  Although her coming out of that egg....I mean wtf!  But I think I get it now.  Cee Lo dressed as a colorful chicken...and Gaga as the egg.  Yeah, now we know which one came first...or do we?  I could be way off.....but that's my concept of that whole thing.

2.  Gwyneth Paltrow.....not bad.  You're all right.  But I think you should stick to acting.  You're not a bad singer, but you're also not the best.  You're kind of....boring.  At least other "singers" who can't sing....(like Britney), has the charisma that makes sales.  She can also dance and has that appeal to her (whether slutty or whatever) she still makes sales.  If you ever put out a record, no offense, but I don't think you'd make much sells.  Just sayin.

3.  Justin Beiber......please die!  Ok, not really.  But hey congrats.  You finally reached puberty and now I don't have to confuse you for a girl.  Your "hanson-esque" voice was REALLY getting annoying.  And for those who are grown adults (meaning not in your teen years) and you have "beiber-fever"......please defriend yourself from my fb and seek help.  REALLY?  Can we say PEDOPHILE?  Think about it.  That's kind of creepy.  Ok, just kidding about the pedophile part.  I understand if you have "admiration" for such young talent.  But to see some of you GROWN women (an d men for that matter) get uber excited over him.........yeah.....please don't talk to me.  ok, just kidding about that part too.  =)

4.  Bruno Mars, although you are short, I'll give you credit because I love your songs.  That's all.  Keep up the good work.  And keep singing songs like "just the way you are" that will guarantee guys getting laid when they sing or dedicate that song to chicks who are stupid enough to fall for it.  lol.  ok, i'm kidding so stop hating!  =) 

5.  RHianna, much better performance LIVE.  I always thought you and Fergie were in the same category.....good songs and sounding great in the recording studio but sounding like sh*t LIVE.  Wasn't the best, but you were actually pretty good.  And um....I don't know your legs are worth a million dollars.  I've seen way better than yours.  No offense, but true.

6.  Eminem.  I have always been in love with you and always will be.  But....you got too skinny.  No me gusta famished looking EMinem.  But I still love you.  Now go eat a cheeseburger.  Hell, you can eat mine!  Like I need a cheeseburger anyway.  =)

7.  P Diddy, Puff Daddy, Puffy, Sean Combs...or whatever the hell you call yourself.  The "grill" was so 90's!  Seriously??  It's like me bringing back the MC Hammer pants.  You look like a damn fool as it is.  take that sh*t out and show your pearly whites.  then you won't look like such an idiot!  I don't care how much money you have...you sport something as ridiculous as that, I will point it out. 

8.  Lady Antebellum.....wow who would have thought??  Your "booty call" song is apparently a hit.  Everytime I hear that song it just makes me want to get drunk off of my vodka and make random drunk booty calls/texts.  "It's a quarter after 1, I'm a little drunk and I need you now...."  Um, yeah.  Sounds like a booty call to me.  SO thank you.  I will remember that next time and remind myself that it's ok to make those kind of calls. 

9.  Mick Jaggar.....first time Grammy's performance.  mixed emotions about this.  I'll leave it at that.

10.  Christina Auguilara........the whole time I was hoping you would mess up the lyrics.  FAIL!  You know you will NEVER live down messing up the lyrics to the national anthem.  I mean Whitney Houston was high as a kits, but at least she got the words right! 

11.  Katy Perry, good performance.  You are as cute as a button. 

12.  Bob Dylan.  Man I wish someone handed you a glass of water.  Now because you're an "icon" I won't say anything too negative.  But um...yeah. 

13.  Miley Cyrus....WTF were you wearing?  Looked like a space age costume gone bad.  I'd prefer your slutty daisy dukes cut offs and pole danceing outfit in "party in the USA" than that awful get up. 

14.  Barbara.......you were good back in the day.  Yes, you're an icon and a wonerful singer, but honestly, when you came onto perform...I took a bathroom break and went to get some more vodka. 

15.  Clay Matthews....what a pleasant surprise.  Csn't say anything bad since you're a cheesehead and I love you too!  You're actually pretty hot yourself you studmuffin you!  =)

ANd that's all i remember from tonight.  My thoughts so don't get mad!  =)  Good night all and HAPPY FRIGGIN VALENTINES DAY!!!  *gag me with a barbie doll leg please*  haha j/k.  Cheers!

Looking back in 2010 and looking forward to 2011

As 2010 comes to a close, I am looking back and realizing how truly blessed I am.  God is great!  We all go through struggles.  I have too.  But when you surround yourself with good, positive people, you can overcome anything.  AND yes...all things are possible through Christ, out Lord and Savior! 

    I want to take this time and thank those who have been a part of this big year for me.  Too many to name, but you guys all know who you are!  Especially my team at Gold's gym Lorton!  I've cried, I've cursed, I've bled, sweat, and put myself through more torture than anyone I know.  Would I do it again?  ABSOLUTELY!  =)  You better believe I am not done.  With so many "projects" coming my way in 2011, I don't know if I'll even be able to keep up with anything. 

I know I've been slacking on the blogs too.  There are so many things I want to talk about and a lot of you guys have e-mailed me especially asking for workout/diet tips and what I did to get to where I'm at.  Even tips and advice about relationships.  Um, I'm the WRONG person to ask about relationships.  I can't figure men out myself.  But wouldn't be fun if I poked fun at some of the guys I've experienced?  I swear if my life was actually on reality TV, I guarentee you guys would be quite entertained.  haha.  j/k.  Don't worry fellas...I'm not gonna go all Taylor Swift on you and bash you!  My "personal" life will stay that way......personal. 

    Now into 2011.  I promise to be more good about posting about workouts and nutrition info.  That's what a bazillion of you guys ask for.  Now please note...I am NOT a nutritionist/dietician nor am I personal trainer (but I will be certified real soon) =)  The tips/advice etc etc what I type is what worked for me.  It may not work for you.  The key is you have to find out what works for you.  I've learned that those low carb diets..did NOT work for me.  Yes, I had to have carbs.  I noticed the more carbs I ate, the faster my fat loss results were.  And no when I say carbs, I don't mean donuts and cookies.  The amount of cardio and hardcore conditioning I was doing, my body NEEDED carbs.  More on future blogs.

   Here's to a great 2011!  CHeers!