Hi guys,
Long time, no write. Vision Quest III is complete and now we're onto Vision Quest IV...
You can find it HERE.
Love,
~C.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Great thread on Personal Training Certifications.
Hi guys,
I was lurking on one of my favorite fitness forums and came across this thread (click on title to view) on reputable personal training certifications. I am glad I made the trip out of state to get mine instead of taking an open book/ online test!
Hopefully if all the planets line up, I will be able to put my knowledge, experience, and reputable NASM certification to work soon.
Stay tuned to all of you local Rapid City-ians who may stumble upon this blog.
Cheers!
~C.
I was lurking on one of my favorite fitness forums and came across this thread (click on title to view) on reputable personal training certifications. I am glad I made the trip out of state to get mine instead of taking an open book/ online test!
Hopefully if all the planets line up, I will be able to put my knowledge, experience, and reputable NASM certification to work soon.
Stay tuned to all of you local Rapid City-ians who may stumble upon this blog.
Cheers!
~C.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Siouxcountry radio
Hey guys... if you happen to get a chance...you can listen to me on Siouxcountry radio Friday night. Holy crap did my heart just do a flip even typing that.
Just go to Siouxcountry.com and click on the button that says, "Sioux Country Radio"....
If I am slurring my words it's because I'm drunk.lol
Cheers!
~C.
Just go to Siouxcountry.com and click on the button that says, "Sioux Country Radio"....
If I am slurring my words it's because I'm drunk.lol
Cheers!
~C.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Oxygen March Issue
Iknow it's only the middle of January, but word on the street is that Oxygen Magazine subscribers are getting their March issues in the mail...like now.
Anyway.. this would be a boring post except for the fact that I heard I was in it.
So... anxiously awaiting the arrival of March Oxygen magizen to the stands.
That's all for today.
~C.
Anyway.. this would be a boring post except for the fact that I heard I was in it.
So... anxiously awaiting the arrival of March Oxygen magizen to the stands.
That's all for today.
~C.
Friday, December 12, 2008
A FREEBIE!!! Merry Christmas!!!
Hey guys... There are a few of you that didn't subscribe to VQIII yet... I really still do care about you all especially if you take the time and effort to still visit this dead blog. So just for your thoughts... I want to give back to you by sharing an exerpt from a recent post on VQIII. (Mom said I should post it everywhere).
What I am trying to tell you by really NOT telling you is that it basically has NOTHING to do with diet or training... YOU can get a diet or training information anywhere...anywhere and everywhere. It's mostly good info.... some of it is bunk due to marketing.. like anything that promises "quick" weight loss or a "magic" pill, etc.
What it has to do with is your character, your values, your integrity.
Imagine that you are a team of one. Now imagine that you are your own coach. Anybody knows the best coaches are the hardest coaches. The coaches that don't put up with bullshit and DEMAND his or her players to bring 110% EVERY time... not just come game time... but in practice as well. Some people say that practice makes perfect. No... really its more like perfect makes perfect. How do you make perfect?.... Did any of you watch that movie "Miracle" about the US Olympic Hockey team from 1984 was it? What did the coach say, "again", "again", "again." That coach didn't make those players great.. he DEMANDED that those players brought EVERYTHING they had and played at their FULL potential.
Most of you don't have a coach barking orders at you... you have to be your own coach.. you have to kick your own ass... you have to demand more from yourself...
When I wrestled in highschool I really thought my coach was an asshole. I mean I still think he is but he was a good coach. He got thrown out of almost every match for arguing with the ref.. His practices were brutal.. I mean brutal... You think 45 minutes on the Stairmaster is hell? Try two and half hours after a full day of school every day in a heated room, working so hard that routinely people would run outside to vomit. YOU cannot be afraid to push yourself.... pushing yourself is what will make you great. It is what will make you better than the competition....
If any one of you says you want to compete but you don't care about winning... that is a slap in the face to the competition... What if I was on the wrestling team and wrestled at my weight class (125) and said, I didn't care if I won or lost. Yeah... I lost every match.. but I brought everything I had... and I cared if I won or lost. I didn't go out there and roll over and play dead... (although it may have appeared that way).
You have to have the courage to not care what other people think about what you are doing... more than likely they never had the balls to go after what they wanted out of life and watching you do it is a reminder of their failures... people want to keep you down...so they can stay in their comfort zone... Don't let anyone or anything keep you down.... no words, no labels, no limiting beliefs. If you have a fire in your belly that wants to express itself... I believe that PASSION is God... I believe that is how he expresses himself through every one of us...
You have to discipline yourself... If you say you are going to do something... YOU DO IT... I know I have dropped the ball on a few things.. that's human.. but overall if I say I am going to do something I WILL DO IT. People can count on me... I am dependable... You need to be able to be accountable to yourself... have some integrity... have some courage... PUT up and keep on putting up.
Yeah you don't have to do anything... just like I didn't have to join the wrestling team in high school.... but I signed up and I showed up and I put up... I sucked... but I gave it my all.. That is heart. That is what you need to be successful in anything. YOU persist EVEN when it's tough... Imagine you ARE the whole team... You are the coach and you are the athlete!!!! Be a good coach to yourself... Don't put up with bullshit and demand that you bring 110% to everything. Do your homework as your own coach... STUDY the opponents... STUDY yourself... SEE where your weaknesses are... CORRECT your weaknesses when possible and COMPENSATE when correction is NOT possible...
SHOW UP...BE PROUD...YOUR REPUTATION IS ON THE LINE... You are building character everytime you practice a habit of excellence... if you let yourself get in the habit of laziness.. of only bringing 50% day in and day out... don't be suprised when you only get half way (50%) to your goal... that is how you trained.. that is what you will get.
Get in the habit of brining at least 110% every day.... day in and day out... don't be surprised if you exceed your goals everytime... you have earned it!!!! Don't be envious or jealous of those who did... they've earned it!! CONGRATULATE THEM!!! Their success should not have a bearing on your success... You are on your own path. Learn from them... they have what you want... be very observant at every contest.. every match..
Learn winning strategies and APPLY what you have learned... someone may already know more than you because they have been at it longer, you have to want it more.... You have to be willing to DO what they won't do....
Be a champion... set the example... be the leader...
Do the hard stuff.. OVERCOME your challenges... no matter what it takes... no matter how much time and effort it takes... Put in the work, the effort and the reward will be endless.
That has been my secret strategy in the past... it all comes down to making the choice... again and again...
~C.
What I am trying to tell you by really NOT telling you is that it basically has NOTHING to do with diet or training... YOU can get a diet or training information anywhere...anywhere and everywhere. It's mostly good info.... some of it is bunk due to marketing.. like anything that promises "quick" weight loss or a "magic" pill, etc.
What it has to do with is your character, your values, your integrity.
Imagine that you are a team of one. Now imagine that you are your own coach. Anybody knows the best coaches are the hardest coaches. The coaches that don't put up with bullshit and DEMAND his or her players to bring 110% EVERY time... not just come game time... but in practice as well. Some people say that practice makes perfect. No... really its more like perfect makes perfect. How do you make perfect?.... Did any of you watch that movie "Miracle" about the US Olympic Hockey team from 1984 was it? What did the coach say, "again", "again", "again." That coach didn't make those players great.. he DEMANDED that those players brought EVERYTHING they had and played at their FULL potential.
Most of you don't have a coach barking orders at you... you have to be your own coach.. you have to kick your own ass... you have to demand more from yourself...
When I wrestled in highschool I really thought my coach was an asshole. I mean I still think he is but he was a good coach. He got thrown out of almost every match for arguing with the ref.. His practices were brutal.. I mean brutal... You think 45 minutes on the Stairmaster is hell? Try two and half hours after a full day of school every day in a heated room, working so hard that routinely people would run outside to vomit. YOU cannot be afraid to push yourself.... pushing yourself is what will make you great. It is what will make you better than the competition....
If any one of you says you want to compete but you don't care about winning... that is a slap in the face to the competition... What if I was on the wrestling team and wrestled at my weight class (125) and said, I didn't care if I won or lost. Yeah... I lost every match.. but I brought everything I had... and I cared if I won or lost. I didn't go out there and roll over and play dead... (although it may have appeared that way).
You have to have the courage to not care what other people think about what you are doing... more than likely they never had the balls to go after what they wanted out of life and watching you do it is a reminder of their failures... people want to keep you down...so they can stay in their comfort zone... Don't let anyone or anything keep you down.... no words, no labels, no limiting beliefs. If you have a fire in your belly that wants to express itself... I believe that PASSION is God... I believe that is how he expresses himself through every one of us...
You have to discipline yourself... If you say you are going to do something... YOU DO IT... I know I have dropped the ball on a few things.. that's human.. but overall if I say I am going to do something I WILL DO IT. People can count on me... I am dependable... You need to be able to be accountable to yourself... have some integrity... have some courage... PUT up and keep on putting up.
Yeah you don't have to do anything... just like I didn't have to join the wrestling team in high school.... but I signed up and I showed up and I put up... I sucked... but I gave it my all.. That is heart. That is what you need to be successful in anything. YOU persist EVEN when it's tough... Imagine you ARE the whole team... You are the coach and you are the athlete!!!! Be a good coach to yourself... Don't put up with bullshit and demand that you bring 110% to everything. Do your homework as your own coach... STUDY the opponents... STUDY yourself... SEE where your weaknesses are... CORRECT your weaknesses when possible and COMPENSATE when correction is NOT possible...
SHOW UP...BE PROUD...YOUR REPUTATION IS ON THE LINE... You are building character everytime you practice a habit of excellence... if you let yourself get in the habit of laziness.. of only bringing 50% day in and day out... don't be suprised when you only get half way (50%) to your goal... that is how you trained.. that is what you will get.
Get in the habit of brining at least 110% every day.... day in and day out... don't be surprised if you exceed your goals everytime... you have earned it!!!! Don't be envious or jealous of those who did... they've earned it!! CONGRATULATE THEM!!! Their success should not have a bearing on your success... You are on your own path. Learn from them... they have what you want... be very observant at every contest.. every match..
Learn winning strategies and APPLY what you have learned... someone may already know more than you because they have been at it longer, you have to want it more.... You have to be willing to DO what they won't do....
Be a champion... set the example... be the leader...
Do the hard stuff.. OVERCOME your challenges... no matter what it takes... no matter how much time and effort it takes... Put in the work, the effort and the reward will be endless.
That has been my secret strategy in the past... it all comes down to making the choice... again and again...
~C.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Accidental Testimonial
Hey guys... just got an accidental testimonial from Lisa T. (LAT Girl) She just left this comment on Vision Quest III...
Ok everyone I have to say Cynthia is just about the cooliest, nicest person ever and I am so lucky to have met her in person in 2007. Cynthia just has that thing which really can't be put into words, you know when you meet someone and you just know that they are destined for great things! Her positive energy could light up the sky which is why I for one support her efforts and subscribe to her blog. If more women stuck together we could conquer the World.
Thank you so much C. for the props on my competition. You have inspired me to be better and not settle for just ok on stage!
I am sure I can speak for the others who subscribe to your blog when I state you make us proud to be on your Team! The Olympia Dream is great but it is your character, passion and energy that you put out into the Universe that makes us wants to follow along!
Lisa T.
November 19, 2008 6:44 AM
Ok everyone I have to say Cynthia is just about the cooliest, nicest person ever and I am so lucky to have met her in person in 2007. Cynthia just has that thing which really can't be put into words, you know when you meet someone and you just know that they are destined for great things! Her positive energy could light up the sky which is why I for one support her efforts and subscribe to her blog. If more women stuck together we could conquer the World.
Thank you so much C. for the props on my competition. You have inspired me to be better and not settle for just ok on stage!
I am sure I can speak for the others who subscribe to your blog when I state you make us proud to be on your Team! The Olympia Dream is great but it is your character, passion and energy that you put out into the Universe that makes us wants to follow along!
Lisa T.
November 19, 2008 6:44 AM
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Testimonial
Hi guys... I am getting some great feedback from my subscribers: I will be posting some of it this week... so stay tuned.
Here is a testimonial I received yesterday:
Here is a testimonial I received yesterday:
It’s difficult for me to find the words to express how much reading Visionquester’s blog has changed my life and the way I think - and it has only been a short period of time. The way she writes, her thoughts and how she expresses herself makes me truly believe in who I am; for the first time in a long time. Her posts and even the comments she leaves in response to others never fail to inspire and uplift me. Often times I find myself nodding along to her words or vlogs – I have never met Cynthia before and yet I feel as though she knows me…like she understands exactly how I think and what makes me tick. I have read libraries full of books telling me how to stop emotional eating, how to think more positively, what to eat, what not to eat, and how to achieve my goals and yet I have never been as motivated by that literature as much as I have from reading Visionquester’s blog. Not only is her blog knowledgeable, it’s also very amusing and quite entertaining. She writes and talks in such a way that is both informative and humorous, but one thing I love best about Cynthia is that she is so real. There’s no b.s. with her – she says exactly what she’s thinking and tells it like it is. Yet she does it in a way that’s tactful and honest and I so appreciate that. Already I have learned so much from her blog. Not just about fitness but in how I think and feel. At first I didn’t think it was worth paying the fee to look at the blog and I couldn’t understand why she would charge. I went back and forth quite a bit about whether or not it would be worth paying for it, but let me tell you – since I did pay there is not a doubt in my mind that I made the right decision. It is worth every single penny!!! I wasn’t even really sure what the money was for, but since joining the blog I’ve learned a bit more about Cynthia’s goal to make it to the Olympia and let me tell you – she is going to win. As you get to know more about her you’ll learn about her determination, persistence, and fight to get to this competition, and now I want to help her in any way that I possibly can. Cynthia can help anyone realize that they can do whatever they set their minds to. I figured I’d spent plenty of money on self-help books before and more often than not they are written by doctors or psychologists. Visionquester’s blog is real – she’s like the rat in the lab…she’s run the race and knows from experience exactly what the journey entails.
~Hayley Cepeda
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Ok.. so many of you subscribed!!! Thank you sooo much.. I really appreciate you helping to reach my dream of making it to the Olympia!!!
I just entered the Bodybuilding.com Spokesmodel contest... I uploaded a few new pics to my Bodyspace and a kickass video that I am not going to lie.. took me 11 hours to produce!!! Yikes! Actually it took me about a year for the footage and 11 hours for the uploads and edits.
Please take a look at the video... and if you like it.. please click on the banner once each day and Vote for me... look for "VISIONQUESTER" as the picture will change daily. This IS an outstanding opportunity that I would LOVE to have... Thanks so much for everyone's support I appreciate it sooo much. Oh..yeah... that's me up there... that's who you are looking for!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Vision Quest III... Journey to the Olympia
Vision Quest III... Journey to the Olympia is getting juicy guys. I had a major breakthrough and would love to share. I hope you all check the info over to the side there about how to access my new blog.
I look forward to having a great time this year... and just when things couldn't get any better... I am betting they will... No, I take that back.. I BELIEVE they will...God willing of course.
Love,
~C.
P.S. my glutes are still screaming from last week's workout!!! Holy crap.
I look forward to having a great time this year... and just when things couldn't get any better... I am betting they will... No, I take that back.. I BELIEVE they will...God willing of course.
Love,
~C.
P.S. my glutes are still screaming from last week's workout!!! Holy crap.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Lisa T.
I am going to the gym to work glutes, Lisa T. and I am thinking of you! I am doing these butt bridge thingy's with a weight place on my pelvis. You know the one where it looks like you are humping the sky? Yeah I am going to get my ass all warmed up with that one in order to get my "mind into my muscle" not to be confused with "head up my ass."
I am going to get really lean next year and then "bam" there it is!
Just thought I would let you know... :) Also... I just wanted to publicly let you know that I think you have amazing potential to pack on the meat in all the right places in order to get to National's if you so desire. No prob.
Just make sure you eat crap religiously right after you work out in addition to some quick protein.
~C.
I am going to get really lean next year and then "bam" there it is!
Just thought I would let you know... :) Also... I just wanted to publicly let you know that I think you have amazing potential to pack on the meat in all the right places in order to get to National's if you so desire. No prob.
Just make sure you eat crap religiously right after you work out in addition to some quick protein.
~C.
Reastablishing relationship
I am reastablishing my healthy relationship with food. I feel positive about this. I am basically taking the same exact steps that I did last year. It worked like a charm... I screwed it all up when I panicked after the show and thought I should somehow try to control what I ate by forming a diet to stick to. I hate that term "sticking" to a diet. It's so ugly. Yuck. Anyway... thanks again to God I am finding my way forward. I am reastablishing my healthy relationship with food. Putting food in it's place... you know basically using it for it's intended purpose such as for nourishment, vitality, health, hunger, and pure pleasure. I am going away from using it to fill time, comfort anxieties, reward good behavior, and finally the biggie... I am going away from using food as a compulsive behavior to ease an obsession. Yikes... sounds like I am a little loopy. Perhaps I am... but the important thing is to know that I am committed to my objective. My objective is to reastablish my healthy relationship with food...which is by the way an essential step toward reaching my ultimate goal...my main desire of competing at the Olympia in 2009! Cool.
PS. I haven't even started working on the layout of VQ III yet... I am still dejunking the basement. I want to be ready to accept whatever the Universe wants to give me and I certainly can't do that with a junky basement.
PS. I haven't even started working on the layout of VQ III yet... I am still dejunking the basement. I want to be ready to accept whatever the Universe wants to give me and I certainly can't do that with a junky basement.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Eating what I want and the joys of off season
Holy crap what a great week.. I managed to dejunkify the upper level of my home taking a huge bag of stuff to a local charity. Hired a service to come in and clean once a week...yeah! Going to continue clearing out sh*t that I have been holding onto for whatever reason... I am working out... gaining strength. I have gained a good 10 pounds so far and am absolutely freaking fine with it.
I love being cut up and veiny but that has it's place... and it's place is on the stage. There is no stage in my immediate future. In fact I am anticipating 8 months before I step on another one. Originally I was toying with the idea of doing an early Spring show, but I don't want to subject my family to my precontest ways. Meaning... I am not here.
So, I have 8 months to create a Pro-level physique... not only Pro level, but a top 3 pro level physique. I have said it before and I will say it again... the body is amazing and will respond to whatever stressors you place upon it. I have my sights set high this time. I may fall flat on my face... I may not. It's all God willing. If I don't meet my goal this year... then there will always be another year, another time for me. I am patient.
So for now.. I am focusing on the domestic arts and transforming my physique. No biggie... not much to report.
~C.
I love being cut up and veiny but that has it's place... and it's place is on the stage. There is no stage in my immediate future. In fact I am anticipating 8 months before I step on another one. Originally I was toying with the idea of doing an early Spring show, but I don't want to subject my family to my precontest ways. Meaning... I am not here.
So, I have 8 months to create a Pro-level physique... not only Pro level, but a top 3 pro level physique. I have said it before and I will say it again... the body is amazing and will respond to whatever stressors you place upon it. I have my sights set high this time. I may fall flat on my face... I may not. It's all God willing. If I don't meet my goal this year... then there will always be another year, another time for me. I am patient.
So for now.. I am focusing on the domestic arts and transforming my physique. No biggie... not much to report.
~C.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Said I would be back...
Said I would be back 01 October... So I am a day late. Whatevah...
Anyway... here's the dillio. I am readjusting to a normal human's schedule: Sleep at night/awake during the day. I am sure there is a word for it but I am too tired to think of it.
My first order of business is to re-do my website and publish the new blog.. Vision Quest III... road to the Olympia. Yeah.. I've been posting in it all along, but want to make it available when it looks all pretty and stuff.
A word on rebound: I hope some of this helps you guys. I realized that rebound is not inevitible. It is definitely a real phenomenon, but it is driven by choice. Choice to revisit your old lifestyle... choice to relax... choice to eat pizza and doughnuts. (oh sorry...I am getting personal now) So it is your mind that triggers rebound. Your thoughts are responsible... you CHOOSE rebound.
Now the physical side effects of choosing to be lax after a show has consequences associated with it. You gain fat. Fat is heavy. Everyone says muscle weighs more than fat, but I say that the muscle is alive. It is useful...it helps you get around... it doesn't feel heavy. It makes you feel lighter when going up and down stairs and running a 5k. Excess fat however, is not useful...it is heavy.. it makes you feel as if you are walking though quicksand. It makes everything harder to do...even walking. The physical consequences of choosing to be lax after a show has very real negative physical effects on your body. It may mimick depression, but it isn't. It's just wanting to sit down or lay down instead of lugging around an extra 10 pounds of fat.
I remember in my final weeks of contest prep, I donned my weighted vest and went for hill walk with 20 extra pounds inside the pockets. It was uncomfortable to say the least. So in comparison, 10 extra pounds isn't that bad, but the comfort level is similar. Heavy feet.
Anyway... you live and learn. I am not depressed, but am really physically taxed by the same things I did before the show... like jogging 3 miles with the dog. This may seem like depression, (lost interest in things I used to like to do) but I assure you it isn't. It is simply more physically demanding.
Was the pizza and doughnuts worth the extra baggage... hells yeah! So I deal and get on with my Vision Quest to the Olympia chalking this up as just one of the minor challenges I will face along the way.
Love,
~C.
Anyway... here's the dillio. I am readjusting to a normal human's schedule: Sleep at night/awake during the day. I am sure there is a word for it but I am too tired to think of it.
My first order of business is to re-do my website and publish the new blog.. Vision Quest III... road to the Olympia. Yeah.. I've been posting in it all along, but want to make it available when it looks all pretty and stuff.
A word on rebound: I hope some of this helps you guys. I realized that rebound is not inevitible. It is definitely a real phenomenon, but it is driven by choice. Choice to revisit your old lifestyle... choice to relax... choice to eat pizza and doughnuts. (oh sorry...I am getting personal now) So it is your mind that triggers rebound. Your thoughts are responsible... you CHOOSE rebound.
Now the physical side effects of choosing to be lax after a show has consequences associated with it. You gain fat. Fat is heavy. Everyone says muscle weighs more than fat, but I say that the muscle is alive. It is useful...it helps you get around... it doesn't feel heavy. It makes you feel lighter when going up and down stairs and running a 5k. Excess fat however, is not useful...it is heavy.. it makes you feel as if you are walking though quicksand. It makes everything harder to do...even walking. The physical consequences of choosing to be lax after a show has very real negative physical effects on your body. It may mimick depression, but it isn't. It's just wanting to sit down or lay down instead of lugging around an extra 10 pounds of fat.
I remember in my final weeks of contest prep, I donned my weighted vest and went for hill walk with 20 extra pounds inside the pockets. It was uncomfortable to say the least. So in comparison, 10 extra pounds isn't that bad, but the comfort level is similar. Heavy feet.
Anyway... you live and learn. I am not depressed, but am really physically taxed by the same things I did before the show... like jogging 3 miles with the dog. This may seem like depression, (lost interest in things I used to like to do) but I assure you it isn't. It is simply more physically demanding.
Was the pizza and doughnuts worth the extra baggage... hells yeah! So I deal and get on with my Vision Quest to the Olympia chalking this up as just one of the minor challenges I will face along the way.
Love,
~C.
Monday, September 29, 2008
HOLY CRAP I'M IN IRONMAN!!!
Hey... I just found ME in Ironman magazine... November issue... on stands now.....page 249. I have been told that I resemble a Jamaican bobsledder! lol
~C.
~C.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Where is she now?
Hi guys,
A few of you have wondere where exactly I have been lately. Well I'll tell ya. I basically stepped off the plane and got to work. I am on my 9th day straight followed by one day off then another string of 8 to 10 days in a row.
Ya see what happened is:
I was in Vegas when I got a broken up call on my cell phone from my boss. Just so happened it was a few hours before I took the stage for prejudging on that Friday evening. He was telling me that the Department of Defense job that my current position was changing into was closing that evening at that I would have to have my Resume' and DD214 (proof of military service)submitted in order to get the job.
Just so happened that I didn't have the form or my laptop with me, and certainly didn't have any time alotted to do what was required.
So come October 1st.... I am out of a job.
Like my mom says... I am "making hay while the sun shines." I am working as many hours as they will let me while opportunity exists.
So please check back to www.CynthiaHerndon.com on October 1st and thereafter. I plan to dedicate a good chunk of my time to updating the site and all things fitness. I'll also have Vision Quest III... Journey to the Olympia available to whoever wants to follow along.
So don't worry about me and don't bother checking back until October.
Thanks guys,
Love Ya.... ~C.
A few of you have wondere where exactly I have been lately. Well I'll tell ya. I basically stepped off the plane and got to work. I am on my 9th day straight followed by one day off then another string of 8 to 10 days in a row.
Ya see what happened is:
I was in Vegas when I got a broken up call on my cell phone from my boss. Just so happened it was a few hours before I took the stage for prejudging on that Friday evening. He was telling me that the Department of Defense job that my current position was changing into was closing that evening at that I would have to have my Resume' and DD214 (proof of military service)submitted in order to get the job.
Just so happened that I didn't have the form or my laptop with me, and certainly didn't have any time alotted to do what was required.
So come October 1st.... I am out of a job.
Like my mom says... I am "making hay while the sun shines." I am working as many hours as they will let me while opportunity exists.
So please check back to www.CynthiaHerndon.com on October 1st and thereafter. I plan to dedicate a good chunk of my time to updating the site and all things fitness. I'll also have Vision Quest III... Journey to the Olympia available to whoever wants to follow along.
So don't worry about me and don't bother checking back until October.
Thanks guys,
Love Ya.... ~C.
Monday, September 8, 2008
11:50 a.m.
It was Monday September 08, 2008 at precisely 11:50 a.m. when I realized all that I have been given. I came out of shock long just long enough to cry a bucket of tears. I still can't believe the magnitude of this. In the whole scope of my life... this is really big. Thank you all.
~C.
~C.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Vision Quest II... The End.
Hey guys... that Cynthia Henderson girl that got her Pro card is cute... she kind of looks like me don't ya think?
Anyway...it's been a great time. Thank you all for your kind words and encouragement. I appreciate it immensely.
About the dedication previously mentioned... I have been holding out for just the right time to dedicate a show to my son, Caleb. I just want you to know that if you can dream it, you can do it. No matter what. No matter what. I love you. This trophy is for you.
And the IFBB Pro Figure competitor lived happily ever after.
Vision Quest II.... The End.
~C.
Anyway...it's been a great time. Thank you all for your kind words and encouragement. I appreciate it immensely.
About the dedication previously mentioned... I have been holding out for just the right time to dedicate a show to my son, Caleb. I just want you to know that if you can dream it, you can do it. No matter what. No matter what. I love you. This trophy is for you.
And the IFBB Pro Figure competitor lived happily ever after.
Vision Quest II.... The End.
~C.
Wow!!!
What an amazing day!!! I am up at 2:00 a.m. to get a head start on my 9:00 a.m. showing. I accidently hit the music button on my alarm clock and this awesome song started playing. That's exactly how I feel today... "life is short but sweet for certain.... let's celebrate!"
Holy crap...I did it again. I feel like I already won... whatever happens after this point is gravy. If I don't get called out...well then I'll just have to deal with it. But there ain't nothing stopping me from getting my hopes up. Yeah... I am getting my hopes WAY up. I love today... I love today. Today is the day I have been working my tail off for. I am going to enjoy it no matter what. No matter what.
I love you guys... If all goes well I have a special dedication for this show. If not: well then you'll just have to wait for a different show, a different time.
Today could be my day, but it could be someone else's day. You never know, you never know. Either way it's a day to celebrate... because someone is going to have the day of their life... and if I don't have the day of my life, well then I am going to make it a point to have the time of my life anyway. There.
So anyway... guys take a minute and listen to this awesome song I woke up to: Two-Step by Dave Matthews Band.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUEV45KNcXw
Love,
~C.
Holy crap...I did it again. I feel like I already won... whatever happens after this point is gravy. If I don't get called out...well then I'll just have to deal with it. But there ain't nothing stopping me from getting my hopes up. Yeah... I am getting my hopes WAY up. I love today... I love today. Today is the day I have been working my tail off for. I am going to enjoy it no matter what. No matter what.
I love you guys... If all goes well I have a special dedication for this show. If not: well then you'll just have to wait for a different show, a different time.
Today could be my day, but it could be someone else's day. You never know, you never know. Either way it's a day to celebrate... because someone is going to have the day of their life... and if I don't have the day of my life, well then I am going to make it a point to have the time of my life anyway. There.
So anyway... guys take a minute and listen to this awesome song I woke up to: Two-Step by Dave Matthews Band.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUEV45KNcXw
Love,
~C.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Going well
Everything is going well... physique is shaping up.. I have the most fat of any of the competitors I have seen so far. My triceps and lower back have some fat on them.
I don't mind though... just makes it easier to transition to "off season."
I got my nails done... she did a wonderful job. They actually fit my fingers this time.
I got lost coming back from the Puma store. I guess I get turned around once I am in a store and then end up walking the wrong way when I come out. So anyway I got my cardio in for the night... I am guessing around 6 to 8 miles in total.
I ended in Washington Square Park. I stayed in a hotel near there a few summers ago so I was at least lost in a familiar place.
I really enjoy New York... there are tons of people that look like me. When I am in South Dakota I am literally the ONLY one with this big hair. Every third girl practically has hair like me. I could see myself living here....shopping is great too...
Thank you so much again for the well wishes .... I appreciate it immensely.
~C.
PS. I am NOT affiliated with Dreambodies whatsoever.
I don't mind though... just makes it easier to transition to "off season."
I got my nails done... she did a wonderful job. They actually fit my fingers this time.
I got lost coming back from the Puma store. I guess I get turned around once I am in a store and then end up walking the wrong way when I come out. So anyway I got my cardio in for the night... I am guessing around 6 to 8 miles in total.
I ended in Washington Square Park. I stayed in a hotel near there a few summers ago so I was at least lost in a familiar place.
I really enjoy New York... there are tons of people that look like me. When I am in South Dakota I am literally the ONLY one with this big hair. Every third girl practically has hair like me. I could see myself living here....shopping is great too...
Thank you so much again for the well wishes .... I appreciate it immensely.
~C.
PS. I am NOT affiliated with Dreambodies whatsoever.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
eMBASSY sWEET!!!
hA HA... i CAN SPELL.......BUT THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WITH MY CAP LOCKS. aNYWAY...i JUST WENT TO THE nEW yORK sPORTS CLUB WHICH IS IN THIS HOTEL AND GUESS WHO WAS ON THE STAIRMASTER????? yEP tANJI JOHNSON! i AM A SUPER FAN... i HAVE HER POSING VIDEO AND WE ARE BOTH 5'3". i LOVE HER PHYSIQUE AND SHE IS JUST AS OUTGOING AND BUBBLY AS SHE WOULD SEEM TO BE. wE CHATTED UP FOR A FEW AND THAT WAS THAT... CAN'T WAIT TO SEE MORE pRO'S.. CAN'T WAIT TO JOIN THE pRO CLUB.
~c.
oFF TO SOAK AND FINISH EPITORTURING... OFF ON FOOT IN THE A.m. TO FIND SOME GROCERIES IN THIS TOWN.
hOTEL IS ABSOLUTELY LOVELY... i GOT ONE HOUR OF SLEEP LAST NIGHT STAYING UP TO FINISH MY SUITS AND i JUST GOT MY SECOND WIND.
tHANKS FOR THE COMPLIMENTS AND THE GOOD LUCK WISHES.... i ONLY HAVE A FEW DECISIONS TO MAKE NOW... LIKE TO PUMP OR NOT TO PUMP????
~c.
~c.
oFF TO SOAK AND FINISH EPITORTURING... OFF ON FOOT IN THE A.m. TO FIND SOME GROCERIES IN THIS TOWN.
hOTEL IS ABSOLUTELY LOVELY... i GOT ONE HOUR OF SLEEP LAST NIGHT STAYING UP TO FINISH MY SUITS AND i JUST GOT MY SECOND WIND.
tHANKS FOR THE COMPLIMENTS AND THE GOOD LUCK WISHES.... i ONLY HAVE A FEW DECISIONS TO MAKE NOW... LIKE TO PUMP OR NOT TO PUMP????
~c.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
One last pic before I hit the road...
Congratulations to Stephanie Larkin for a great showing in Cleveland... she looked awesome! She came in 8th place and was absolutely stunning.
Thank God someone took my shift for me today.. I would not have been ready to leave if he hadn't. Thank God.
Anyway... have lots to do today. Gotta pack, train, stone...etc.
I thought I would leave you all with a pic I came across at Ironman online magazine on my search for Stephanie Larkins contest pics:
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Thought it might be fun....
Here are some pics... the first one is from August 2005... the second from August 2008.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
I want to win.
There I said it. I want to win. I want to win so much that I'm moody because the odds are against me and I know it. I want to win and I am afraid of being severely dissapointed. I really really really want to win. I don't know why I was afraid to say that before... I would feel ok about saying that I was shooting for top 10 or top 5 or top half or whatever, because it was safe aim for par. I was afraid to admit that I want to win because it's like hitting a hole in one. I really really really want to sink the ball this time.
If I don't win...I will deal with it and I will learn from it and I will be happy for the winner. I really want to have a good time as well. I want to have a blast. I have put a lot into this endeavor... and it is time to harvest.
~C.
If I don't win...I will deal with it and I will learn from it and I will be happy for the winner. I really want to have a good time as well. I want to have a blast. I have put a lot into this endeavor... and it is time to harvest.
~C.
You guys are completely right!!!
I am NOT a victim. I ASKED for this. I WANT this. Time to SUCK IT UP & push through!
~C.
~C.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Lost my PMA.
Lost my PMA. Will return when love handles and saddle bags leave. Not digging the physique right now. Hopefully it will respond with hard work. If not..it's OVER between us! (me and my phsique)
No comments necessary.
~C.
No comments necessary.
~C.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Longer than anticipated
Well.... since beginning my new training... I am gaining weight instead of losing. Looks like I won't compete at 116 or 117......more like 120 again.
I feel really hormonal and crabby... I think my long lost relative is coming back to visit after a 3 month or so vacation. Yikes!
Stoning my suit is taking longer than expected... spent 5 hours on it yesterday and my dh came home to a wife that was loopy from the E6000 glue. Still didn't finish the suit.... haven't even started the one piece. Need to alter first. Alterations lady is out of town.... looks like I get to figure out how to alter. Yeah!
Cut my own hair again... need someone else to cut it. Every one that I trust is booked through Labor day.
Good news!!! It's free tan week at Tan World!!! Yeah!
Washer broke a few days ago. Had to go buy a new one.. went ahead and spent a gazillion dollars to get the biggest one they had + the dryer to match. I am NOT spending my life waiting for clothes to wash and dry. Check it out:
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Down to the wire.......
Hey everyone... wish Stephanie Larkin a good showing at North American's next weekend. She's gonna kill it!!! So beautiful!
Anyway... I have been really killing it in the gym this last week. Scheduled to tear it down today as well... don't think I am going to do it.. would be better off to wait until Monday (my day off) to give my workout it's full attention and try to rebuild and repair today.
Two weeks out as of yesterday... still need to get one piece altered and stoned and stone two-piece. Two-piece is turning out beautiful... ordered more crystals... ridiculous amount of money on crystals...plan to go Pro in these suits. No matter how many years it takes!
Cut my hair.... going to get it re-cut... probably will end up with short hair before it's all over.
Still want to go to Spain... very much so... may be MIA this next few weeks.
~C.
Anyway... I have been really killing it in the gym this last week. Scheduled to tear it down today as well... don't think I am going to do it.. would be better off to wait until Monday (my day off) to give my workout it's full attention and try to rebuild and repair today.
Two weeks out as of yesterday... still need to get one piece altered and stoned and stone two-piece. Two-piece is turning out beautiful... ordered more crystals... ridiculous amount of money on crystals...plan to go Pro in these suits. No matter how many years it takes!
Cut my hair.... going to get it re-cut... probably will end up with short hair before it's all over.
Still want to go to Spain... very much so... may be MIA this next few weeks.
~C.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Spain
I've never been to Spain... I would like to go. I think I am shooting for Spain. Yeah... Spain.. Can you hear it? "Oh, I might pick up a few trinkets for the house on my trip to Spain."
Yeah... the class winners of the Team Universe comp. get to represent the US in Spain. I'll get details on a need to know basis. All I know is that I want to go... no matter what the details. I have a beautiful two-piece in the making that would really go well in Spain. Oh and being a Professional Figure Competitor would be probably the coolest thing I have ever done. I've never been a professional anything and I would like to give it a go. Why not, right?
I can't wait to grow a butt... this new gym has a glute/ham machine that makes ALL the difference in booty training. I really want to show you guys my suit... because is is turning out better than expected... but I really want it to be a surprise even more..so you'll just have to wait. Remember the theme is "Indian Summer". Here are the reasons for the name: First of all the design was inspired by some beautiful Indian Sari's that I saw, second of all... I am the Visionquester.. so that's kind of an Indian thing too. Then there is the time of year... well summer is on it's way out the door but I will still be hot, hot, hot.... thus the Indian Summer reference. Oh yeah and one more thing... the design is reminiscint of a beautiful Indian Summer day... aka: fall.
There you have it... it's really deep guys trust me. I love doughnuts and I love carbs and I really dig Lucky Charms and I feel bad for all you suckers on a "clean eating" kick. I much prefer down and dirty when it comes to my food. :)
Ok that was a bazillion things... OH and if Michelle makes it this far I have an answer for her too. Michelle... just ask God to decide, and he will.. you don't have to know how it all works..it just does. The way things will go down will be unmistakably devine. You won't have to guess whatsoever.
That was version A. Version B goes something like this: If you are impatient and you just have to make the decision yourself.. then make it, but add a "God Willing" to the end. If he doesn't want you to go that direction.. guess what?... you won't.
Make sure you really believe that he is making an informed decision for you.. see he has the advantage.. he's God.
G'night.. off to get stoning.
~C.
Yeah... the class winners of the Team Universe comp. get to represent the US in Spain. I'll get details on a need to know basis. All I know is that I want to go... no matter what the details. I have a beautiful two-piece in the making that would really go well in Spain. Oh and being a Professional Figure Competitor would be probably the coolest thing I have ever done. I've never been a professional anything and I would like to give it a go. Why not, right?
I can't wait to grow a butt... this new gym has a glute/ham machine that makes ALL the difference in booty training. I really want to show you guys my suit... because is is turning out better than expected... but I really want it to be a surprise even more..so you'll just have to wait. Remember the theme is "Indian Summer". Here are the reasons for the name: First of all the design was inspired by some beautiful Indian Sari's that I saw, second of all... I am the Visionquester.. so that's kind of an Indian thing too. Then there is the time of year... well summer is on it's way out the door but I will still be hot, hot, hot.... thus the Indian Summer reference. Oh yeah and one more thing... the design is reminiscint of a beautiful Indian Summer day... aka: fall.
There you have it... it's really deep guys trust me. I love doughnuts and I love carbs and I really dig Lucky Charms and I feel bad for all you suckers on a "clean eating" kick. I much prefer down and dirty when it comes to my food. :)
Ok that was a bazillion things... OH and if Michelle makes it this far I have an answer for her too. Michelle... just ask God to decide, and he will.. you don't have to know how it all works..it just does. The way things will go down will be unmistakably devine. You won't have to guess whatsoever.
That was version A. Version B goes something like this: If you are impatient and you just have to make the decision yourself.. then make it, but add a "God Willing" to the end. If he doesn't want you to go that direction.. guess what?... you won't.
Make sure you really believe that he is making an informed decision for you.. see he has the advantage.. he's God.
G'night.. off to get stoning.
~C.
The finest cuts
For those of you who want to know about the doughnuts... I didn't just go about it haphazardly. I didn't just gobble them all down with reckless abandon. It was well thought out. I bought a box of 50% off doughnuts because it was later in the day on Sunday. The box was sealed... so it was a mystery what was going to be inside.
I got out my plate, fork and knife and only chose the finest cuts of each doughnut. I'm not sure how many in total... I do remember chocolate covered long john, maple covered bavarian filled, jelly filled glazed... at that point the sugar must have taken over because those are the only ones I can remember off hand. Maybe next time I will hit the jackpot and land some with nuts or sprinkles on top.
Anyway... I hope you all enjoyed that as much as I did...
Yesterday I got my new suits in the mail.... they are nearly perfect.. the two piece IS perfect and the one-piece is very, very close to being perfect. The color is absolutely beautiful...I am so excited to get them stoned. I can't tell you all enough how important it is to get a good suit designer... one that has customer service skills. I can't thank CCFitwear enough for what they have done for me on such short notice. They have gone above and beyond...
BTW...I love the new gym, I might even get a membership.
~C.
I got out my plate, fork and knife and only chose the finest cuts of each doughnut. I'm not sure how many in total... I do remember chocolate covered long john, maple covered bavarian filled, jelly filled glazed... at that point the sugar must have taken over because those are the only ones I can remember off hand. Maybe next time I will hit the jackpot and land some with nuts or sprinkles on top.
Anyway... I hope you all enjoyed that as much as I did...
Yesterday I got my new suits in the mail.... they are nearly perfect.. the two piece IS perfect and the one-piece is very, very close to being perfect. The color is absolutely beautiful...I am so excited to get them stoned. I can't tell you all enough how important it is to get a good suit designer... one that has customer service skills. I can't thank CCFitwear enough for what they have done for me on such short notice. They have gone above and beyond...
BTW...I love the new gym, I might even get a membership.
~C.
Monday, August 18, 2008
OK I fixed it!
Ok... it seems as though I just look better fatter. Sorry, but I like the junk in my trunk. I took my junk for granted.... I didn't appreciate it until it was gone. So I took matters into my hands or should I say mouth and had a doughnut extravaganza yesterday... totally planned. I must say... things are looking much better today in my opinion.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
a little uneasy
Ok dh took pics of me this morning... not too happy. I am having one of those low points where I pout all day. I am skinny and soft... virtually half the muscle I had a month ago. Don't know exactly what's going on but have a sneaking suspicion that I need to go to the gym at least 6 days and lay off the freaking cardio. Either that or eat doughnuts to help my muscles rebuild. I have lost my V-taper and don't know if I can find it in time for the big show.
I think the answer would be to eat more and lift more and do more cardio. But and there is always a but.... I don't have the freaking time!!! In fact I am working 6 days before I fly out of here. Hopefully I will find the time to stone my suits and pack my bags.
Here's what I am going to do... I am going to forget about the contest... I mean I am going to compete and I will do it with the intention of winning.... but I will train and eat like I am building rather than cutting. Not only am I going to change my mindset about my training, but I am going to see if I can get one of those week trial memberships at the Anytime Fitness nearby. I need to be able to sneak out of here at midnight if I need to and hit the gym. I have two weeks....only two weeks to get this right!! I need to suck it up and get the job done!!! It's as simple as that. I have worked too hard to let it all slip away.
It's definitely NOT a do or die situation.. It is a contest. That is all. Again I want to SHOW what I have. It's only fair to the audience who paid good money to come see a show that they get to see something special... something they don't get an opportunity to see every day. I want to show my BEST me, not some watered down overdieted version of me. Not some "oh you should have seen me a week ago" version of me.. I want to peak. I want to be my best. I want to not only meet but I want to exceed my own expectations.
This is what I want.
~C.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Stock in Swarovski
Holy crap I just spent a ton of money on crystals!!! I think these suits will be sure to wow!!! It's kind of like one of those "You either love it or hate it type of deals." Like wow, that's beautiful or wow...that really makes me want to vomit. I am calling it, "Indian Summer" Hair is going back to dark to coordinate with theme. Getting about an inch of frayed hair cut off even though it is split up about 2 inches!!! Could use a new pair of shoes... but that is such a hassle to get appropriate inserts so they are wearable... I'll just keep mine. They're broken in anyway.
Love it...
Can't wait for my baby to come home on Saturday!!!
~C.
Love it...
Can't wait for my baby to come home on Saturday!!!
~C.
Salad of champions
Here's a 600 calorie gift from God....
The avocado pecan bleu with blackened chicken salad with reduced calorie ranch dressing.... from Culvers... fast food that takes a little time.
~C.
I just realized.....
I just realized that this was my first show I have done without a rebound!!! I plan to not have one after New York either... not a fan of the rebound... the overeating rebound that is.
I ate that P'Zone yesterday... the whole thing and was really concerned that I would wake up all bloated and puffy, but nope.. I woke up and look and feel contest ready. I hope it doesn't catch up with me in a few days. Probably just enough carbs, fat, and protein and calories to tell body it's ok to lose more fat since I am being well fed. But ya never know... It was delicious by the way.
I ordered my suits... now I have to go to Borders with my sample crystal card. I found this awesome book in the decorating section that gives a gazillion color scheme combinations including what mood you are trying to evoke.
I am going to color my hair tonight blacky brown and hope it fades to a deep shade of brown by Labor Day. I am going to get it trimmed next week so if it goes too dark on the ends we can just chop them off.
So much to do....
~C.
I ate that P'Zone yesterday... the whole thing and was really concerned that I would wake up all bloated and puffy, but nope.. I woke up and look and feel contest ready. I hope it doesn't catch up with me in a few days. Probably just enough carbs, fat, and protein and calories to tell body it's ok to lose more fat since I am being well fed. But ya never know... It was delicious by the way.
I ordered my suits... now I have to go to Borders with my sample crystal card. I found this awesome book in the decorating section that gives a gazillion color scheme combinations including what mood you are trying to evoke.
I am going to color my hair tonight blacky brown and hope it fades to a deep shade of brown by Labor Day. I am going to get it trimmed next week so if it goes too dark on the ends we can just chop them off.
So much to do....
~C.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
I am not lyin'!
I swear this happened. Me and Lizzy ran the length of our street really fast after having jogged 3 miles at a leisurely pace....when we got inside the dog couldn't get the smile off her face! I swear she had runners high! So cool.
Anyway... time is ticking... so much to do.. so little time. I am totally revamping for this next show soon approaching.. What is left 20 something days? Oh I forget. The days keep flying by.
I am changing my posing up a little and going for a leaner meaner look. I figure my muscles look great and with a nice little layer of water over them... they will flow and have some nice feminine lines. I thought about keeping some fat for similar effect, but fat is tricky... it goes to where it wants to and is kind of lumpy to boot. So yes, I am getting rid of it and instead am going for the anatomy chart look with that ever so slight layer of water. Could work... could backfire... you never know until you try right???
Any way... I am going to consume a P'Zone tomorrow with my dh then hit the gym for a nice building session. Yeah... I want pizza and I don't want to wait until after the show... I have been reading and food should never be used as a reward.
I can't wait to get my new suits stoned...which I don't have yet. Actually which I haven't even ordered yet... I can't wait to stone them because everything I see becomes a crystal pattern to me. Yep, tattoos, flowers, birds, wall paper border, quilts.... uh... I need this done so I can free up my mind for more pressing things like what color to dye my hair this time!!!
Ha! I love figure competition.... want to do it professionally someday.
~C.
So anyway
Anyway... time is ticking... so much to do.. so little time. I am totally revamping for this next show soon approaching.. What is left 20 something days? Oh I forget. The days keep flying by.
I am changing my posing up a little and going for a leaner meaner look. I figure my muscles look great and with a nice little layer of water over them... they will flow and have some nice feminine lines. I thought about keeping some fat for similar effect, but fat is tricky... it goes to where it wants to and is kind of lumpy to boot. So yes, I am getting rid of it and instead am going for the anatomy chart look with that ever so slight layer of water. Could work... could backfire... you never know until you try right???
Any way... I am going to consume a P'Zone tomorrow with my dh then hit the gym for a nice building session. Yeah... I want pizza and I don't want to wait until after the show... I have been reading and food should never be used as a reward.
I can't wait to get my new suits stoned...which I don't have yet. Actually which I haven't even ordered yet... I can't wait to stone them because everything I see becomes a crystal pattern to me. Yep, tattoos, flowers, birds, wall paper border, quilts.... uh... I need this done so I can free up my mind for more pressing things like what color to dye my hair this time!!!
Ha! I love figure competition.... want to do it professionally someday.
~C.
So anyway
Sunday, August 10, 2008
New Post
Been stuck in my head lately... trying to come up with a winning suit color/crystal design combo. I think I have an idea... of sorts. Hmmm.... we shall wait and see I guess.
I am on a new shift again... sleep schedule is messed up, but what's new right?
Strapped on my 20 pound weighted vest for a hilly walk through the neighborhood. Wow, can't believe I've lost 20 pounds. That was really heavy. I used to get better workouts when I was heavier...way more taxing lugging the extra 20 around.
This next three weeks will be the true test... the test of whether or not I am in this competition prep 100% or not. The test of how badly do I really want this.. and if I do get it, could I handle it?
Just so everyone knows... I think I am cut out for this... this gets me up in the morning... this drives me. I want this. This is me.
I weighed 121 this morning and plan to compete at 116 to 117. I want to just walk up on stage...without trying to contort my body into looking more conditioned or muscular than it is. I just want to walk up there and BAM... there it is.
Just babbling to myself....
I can't wait to order my new suits this week. I can't wait to grow a giant full set of glutes. I can't wait for when it all comes together and the stars line up and they call my name last. That will be a sweet day in my life.
Off to the gym, and then to work...repeat.
~C.
I am on a new shift again... sleep schedule is messed up, but what's new right?
Strapped on my 20 pound weighted vest for a hilly walk through the neighborhood. Wow, can't believe I've lost 20 pounds. That was really heavy. I used to get better workouts when I was heavier...way more taxing lugging the extra 20 around.
This next three weeks will be the true test... the test of whether or not I am in this competition prep 100% or not. The test of how badly do I really want this.. and if I do get it, could I handle it?
Just so everyone knows... I think I am cut out for this... this gets me up in the morning... this drives me. I want this. This is me.
I weighed 121 this morning and plan to compete at 116 to 117. I want to just walk up on stage...without trying to contort my body into looking more conditioned or muscular than it is. I just want to walk up there and BAM... there it is.
Just babbling to myself....
I can't wait to order my new suits this week. I can't wait to grow a giant full set of glutes. I can't wait for when it all comes together and the stars line up and they call my name last. That will be a sweet day in my life.
Off to the gym, and then to work...repeat.
~C.
Friday, August 8, 2008
New Design
I am getting a new one-piece... any votes on color?? I have a great design planned... guys getting sick of red yet because I still feel ON FIRE!!!
Working lots... maintaining figure.... would like to improve it however. Still have 4 weeks... Man I can so do this.
"Don't count the days, make the days count"
~Muhammed Ali
Working lots... maintaining figure.... would like to improve it however. Still have 4 weeks... Man I can so do this.
"Don't count the days, make the days count"
~Muhammed Ali
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Hard Fitness pics!!!
http://www.hardfitness.com/competitions/usavegas2008/npcfigure/figurec/cynthiaherndon/onepiece/index.html
http://www.hardfitness.com/competitions/usavegas2008/npcfigure/figurec/cynthiaherndon/twopiece/index.html
~C.
http://www.hardfitness.com/competitions/usavegas2008/npcfigure/figurec/cynthiaherndon/twopiece/index.html
~C.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Time of my life...
While I am having the time of my life... there are others that need your thoughts and prayers.
Please pray for my Uncle Jerry who recently underwent surgery for cancer... and my boss's daughter who recently found out she had cervical cancer that has spread to her leg and hip, and now I just found out that my friend's brother in-law broke his neck and is in pretty bad shape. Finally my friend Vicki just lost her brother unexpectedly. Please pray for them and their families. I appreciate... I know about 100 people read this a day and I believe you can help make a difference.
Thanks so much...
Just didn't seem right to blather on about myself with the above being mentioned.
Love,
~C.
Please pray for my Uncle Jerry who recently underwent surgery for cancer... and my boss's daughter who recently found out she had cervical cancer that has spread to her leg and hip, and now I just found out that my friend's brother in-law broke his neck and is in pretty bad shape. Finally my friend Vicki just lost her brother unexpectedly. Please pray for them and their families. I appreciate... I know about 100 people read this a day and I believe you can help make a difference.
Thanks so much...
Just didn't seem right to blather on about myself with the above being mentioned.
Love,
~C.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Sick
Sick of me yet? Almost? Well hold on I got a few more pics... oh yeah and the doughnut lady had a fill-in and she didn't drop off fresh doughnuts again.. Yeah. Then the next day I had a wad of gum in my mouth and remained mentally strong...yeah.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Friday, August 1, 2008
A word about rebound...
A word about rebound. Don't fear folks.. I'm not rebounding yet. I have been thinking about what it will be like after the next contest. There are lots of things other than competing that I would like to focus my attention to. I actually have quite the list.. so it's not like I don't have any plans and I will be wandering aimlessly.
I figured out tonight on my walk that rebounding has everything with your body's desire to live. I figured out that it isn't just about the food, etc. It has a lot to do with being under a great amount of stress over a long period of time.. The body can handle it...but just barely. As soon as the contest is over that stress is completely lifted and the body needs to repair and rejuvenate.
I am still recovering from the lack of sleep I got over the week prior to Vegas and the time in Vegas. My body is living. It is repairing... it is sleeping. It is rejuvenating and replenishing it's stores.
The human body was made perfect... when it is overly taxed over long periods it needs to repair.. and sometimes it goes into what we call a "depression". I believe it is an essential part of the repairing process. How can we expect to go, go, go? It's like driving a car and never doing any maintenance. You can keep putting gas in and it will still go... but to run efficiently you have to perform routine maintenance such as oil change, filter changes, spark plugs, etc.
Being a physique competitor is the equivalent of being a race car... we need to be able to run at top notch in season.. and to do that we need a thoughtful off season.
Just thinking...
~C.
I figured out tonight on my walk that rebounding has everything with your body's desire to live. I figured out that it isn't just about the food, etc. It has a lot to do with being under a great amount of stress over a long period of time.. The body can handle it...but just barely. As soon as the contest is over that stress is completely lifted and the body needs to repair and rejuvenate.
I am still recovering from the lack of sleep I got over the week prior to Vegas and the time in Vegas. My body is living. It is repairing... it is sleeping. It is rejuvenating and replenishing it's stores.
The human body was made perfect... when it is overly taxed over long periods it needs to repair.. and sometimes it goes into what we call a "depression". I believe it is an essential part of the repairing process. How can we expect to go, go, go? It's like driving a car and never doing any maintenance. You can keep putting gas in and it will still go... but to run efficiently you have to perform routine maintenance such as oil change, filter changes, spark plugs, etc.
Being a physique competitor is the equivalent of being a race car... we need to be able to run at top notch in season.. and to do that we need a thoughtful off season.
Just thinking...
~C.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
challenge
Today's challenge: How to ignore the doughnut lady.
Around 5:00 AM after having worked almost a full shift... the doughnut lady cruises through the gates with a fresh delivery for us. Now I hate to be rude...so of course I participate in polishing off the whole box with my co-workers. I mean after all it's only polite to get rid of the evidence so as to no frusterate the day shifters by the lack of variety... right?
Yeah I can lie to myself or I can be prepared. Tonight instead of simply "trying harder" to abstain... I am going to use the never failing strategy of shoving my face full of gum. Yep... I have awaken my primal hunger by indulging in all of the pre-contest fat and carb loading festivities. My body enjoyed it and would like some more..
Am I stronger than my body? Can I really zero in on disciplining my mind to focus on the greater good? The big picture? The Olympia? and to simply forget about small pleasures of the flesh for now... of course I can. I have an iron will. I can get a full time job in a bakery if I want when the time is right. That time is NOT now.
I have a small window of opportunity to fulfill my dreams.. very small.. no doughnut (or four) will stand in my way.. no sir-ree bob.
Ha ha... this is all part of the game folks. The crazy game of physique competition.
I LOVE IT!!! Every stinking second....
Off to build some lower back muscles.... TTFN
Love,
C.
P.S. Anonymous commenter.... I measured in at 5'3.5".....I typically measure in at 5'3"...
Around 5:00 AM after having worked almost a full shift... the doughnut lady cruises through the gates with a fresh delivery for us. Now I hate to be rude...so of course I participate in polishing off the whole box with my co-workers. I mean after all it's only polite to get rid of the evidence so as to no frusterate the day shifters by the lack of variety... right?
Yeah I can lie to myself or I can be prepared. Tonight instead of simply "trying harder" to abstain... I am going to use the never failing strategy of shoving my face full of gum. Yep... I have awaken my primal hunger by indulging in all of the pre-contest fat and carb loading festivities. My body enjoyed it and would like some more..
Am I stronger than my body? Can I really zero in on disciplining my mind to focus on the greater good? The big picture? The Olympia? and to simply forget about small pleasures of the flesh for now... of course I can. I have an iron will. I can get a full time job in a bakery if I want when the time is right. That time is NOT now.
I have a small window of opportunity to fulfill my dreams.. very small.. no doughnut (or four) will stand in my way.. no sir-ree bob.
Ha ha... this is all part of the game folks. The crazy game of physique competition.
I LOVE IT!!! Every stinking second....
Off to build some lower back muscles.... TTFN
Love,
C.
P.S. Anonymous commenter.... I measured in at 5'3.5".....I typically measure in at 5'3"...
backstage view
Hey... you guys can see what it looks like behind the scenes. This is where all the fun happens.
Can you find me? I can hear myself saying, "That's too bad"
~C.
http://webcast.bodybuilding.com/fitshow/2008usa/interviews/figure_backstage_view.wmv
Can you find me? I can hear myself saying, "That's too bad"
~C.
http://webcast.bodybuilding.com/fitshow/2008usa/interviews/figure_backstage_view.wmv
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
booked
Hey... I'm booked for Team U. That's it for amateur competition this year.
I have been weighing in at 118.5 and 119... need to build back what I lost. Hope to strategically place a pound or so of lean mass on my lower back in the diamond and the lower lats... have to go above and beyond CrossFit for this endeavor.
~C.
Prejudging video is coming soon on BB.com You'll get to see the judge get annoyed with me for doing my model turns in my own way. How fun!
I have been weighing in at 118.5 and 119... need to build back what I lost. Hope to strategically place a pound or so of lean mass on my lower back in the diamond and the lower lats... have to go above and beyond CrossFit for this endeavor.
~C.
Prejudging video is coming soon on BB.com You'll get to see the judge get annoyed with me for doing my model turns in my own way. How fun!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
So full
Hey guys...thanks again!!
FAQ: What's next?
A: Team U for a Pro Card (If I come in dead ass last..I'll be satisfied, but I at least have to see what I can do there; otherwise I will have an unsettled feeling the rest of my life)
FAQ: How did I come in so full?
A: Well the night before the show my dh took pictures of me and I was all striated, veiny and hard... exactly what they don't want... so I took matters into my own hands to cure the problem. (Jess knows how I came in so full).
FAQ: Do I think I should have won?
A: Absolutely not! I don't have an IFBB Pro figure yet... but when I do...and most importantly if God wills it....wow...I can't wait. The winner was sooooo deserving and I have no complaints about the judging. All top 4 girls were the sweetest, kindest, most beautiful girls inside and out... very refreshing. (Krissy Burton has the cutest accent too)
Love,
~C.
you guys... this is too funny... I got back to work and they had moved me to a different shift again!!! Thank God I have learned how to adapt... otherwise I would have snapped a long time ago!! lol
FAQ: What's next?
A: Team U for a Pro Card (If I come in dead ass last..I'll be satisfied, but I at least have to see what I can do there; otherwise I will have an unsettled feeling the rest of my life)
FAQ: How did I come in so full?
A: Well the night before the show my dh took pictures of me and I was all striated, veiny and hard... exactly what they don't want... so I took matters into my own hands to cure the problem. (Jess knows how I came in so full).
FAQ: Do I think I should have won?
A: Absolutely not! I don't have an IFBB Pro figure yet... but when I do...and most importantly if God wills it....wow...I can't wait. The winner was sooooo deserving and I have no complaints about the judging. All top 4 girls were the sweetest, kindest, most beautiful girls inside and out... very refreshing. (Krissy Burton has the cutest accent too)
Love,
~C.
you guys... this is too funny... I got back to work and they had moved me to a different shift again!!! Thank God I have learned how to adapt... otherwise I would have snapped a long time ago!! lol
Monday, July 28, 2008
Watch it now!!!!
http://webcast.bodybuilding.com/fitshow/2008usa/webcast/2008usa_figure_final.html
~C
~C
Thank you so much for the lovely compliments!!!
Hey guys... Trojan is right... I DO have so much to be thankful for!
Thank you all for the lovely compliments, I appreciate. Just wanted to clarify once again... even though I profess to be a DIY girl (Do It Yourself)... the credit is all God's.
Love you guys.. make sure to watch the webcast on BodyBuilding.com today!!
~C.
Thank you all for the lovely compliments, I appreciate. Just wanted to clarify once again... even though I profess to be a DIY girl (Do It Yourself)... the credit is all God's.
Love you guys.. make sure to watch the webcast on BodyBuilding.com today!!
~C.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Through the Roof!!!
Hey guys,
This one was for you!!! Enjoy!
(I'll upload all my pics when I get home... the internet connection here blows)
Love,
C.
Flex Online.com
Here is a link to view more pics from FlexOnline.com of my two-piece:
http://www.flexonline.com/08contests/08usa/cynthia_herndon/index.htm
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Bodybuilding.com
Hey guys... I found these pics on BB.com Yeah my nose is really big... I've been otrying to get my body in proportion with it for a few years now... but no amount of muscle will help this schnoz! Anyway... enjoy!
So... how did I do?
Well... I think I did very well. I got called out in the Second Call out... first number called. If that means anything... probably not. Anyway the first call out typically contains the top 5... but, and there is alway as but... this time was different. This time they only called out 4 in the first call out for the one-piece and 3 in the first call out for the two piece... which means... there is a fifth spot still open for the taking...
A top 10 placing would leave me quite proud... however a top 5 placing would put me through the roof. I am quite heavily muscled for what they are looking for but I did go ahead and come in soft like they wanted. I really don't think I got that 5th spot because my back is overly muscled and I did flex it against my better judgement. Anyway.... you never know.
Here are a few pics from the two piece prejudging...
What about Bob?
Yeah.. I was able to tell Bob after prejudging how much I liked his recent article in in Flex magazine... yeah..he wants me.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Keeping it real post.
OK guys here's the keeping it real post... I really felt choked up at the gym yesterday thinking about what an awesome year this has been once again. I have learned so much and have overcome some major issues concerning food and my abuse of it. Meaning... I wasn't using it for it's intended purpose. I have had to learn other ways to comfort myself in the times of great stress, fatigue, anger, etc. At some points I have broken out in hives I was so ticked off because I didn't know how to "handle" something. So anyway a great replacement for stuffing my feelings was to express them by writing on this blog almost daily. It has been an extremely useful tool for coping with everyday life. It wouldn't have the same effect if you guys weren't on here with me, supporting me when I need it, and giving me a kick in the ass when I need it. I thank you deeply for that.
I've also replaced my all or nothing, black and white belief system. Perfectionism has no place in the life of a figure competitor... moderation is truly a worthwile goal..
So, in my eyes... this contest prep (which really has NOTHING to do with my physique) has been a success. I have done what I set out to do... I've "already won" so to speak. So with the intimidation of 44 or so other competitors looming over me.. I have to keep what's really important in the fore front. Like I said before... this IS the reward... the journey IS the reward. So whatever happens Friday and Saturday... please know that I gave it my all and I am dedicating this show to you all.. it's about you... and I am going to give you the show that you've hung in there so long to see.
I just wanted to also throw in there that my son, Caleb, has inspired me to run through to the finish line despite the odds. He recently had almost given up trying to reach his summer reading goal of 1000 minutes to make it to the party. He looked at the work ahead of him and almost talked himself into believing the party would be lame anyway. Something happened though... something that inspired me. He dug deep down and pulled out the discipline and perseverance necessary to reach his goal. Congratulations Caleb!!! You made it to the party....despite the odds... you were proactive NOT reactive... You cast fear and doubt aside... you believed you could do it and you did. You found your PMA (positive mental attitude) and you prevailed. Thank you for setting the bar.
~C.
P.S. Hell week only occurs when you are stoning your suits within a few hours of your flight leaving... turning your hair Ronald McDonald red, then pink, then blacky purple, then orangy brown all within 24 hours....you stay up 30-some hours straight... I am just guessing though. :)
Thanks again to all of you who helped me along the way.. from working out with me, encouraging me, inspiring me, giving me frank advice... and just plain ol' being there for my every need. I appreciate.
I've also replaced my all or nothing, black and white belief system. Perfectionism has no place in the life of a figure competitor... moderation is truly a worthwile goal..
So, in my eyes... this contest prep (which really has NOTHING to do with my physique) has been a success. I have done what I set out to do... I've "already won" so to speak. So with the intimidation of 44 or so other competitors looming over me.. I have to keep what's really important in the fore front. Like I said before... this IS the reward... the journey IS the reward. So whatever happens Friday and Saturday... please know that I gave it my all and I am dedicating this show to you all.. it's about you... and I am going to give you the show that you've hung in there so long to see.
I just wanted to also throw in there that my son, Caleb, has inspired me to run through to the finish line despite the odds. He recently had almost given up trying to reach his summer reading goal of 1000 minutes to make it to the party. He looked at the work ahead of him and almost talked himself into believing the party would be lame anyway. Something happened though... something that inspired me. He dug deep down and pulled out the discipline and perseverance necessary to reach his goal. Congratulations Caleb!!! You made it to the party....despite the odds... you were proactive NOT reactive... You cast fear and doubt aside... you believed you could do it and you did. You found your PMA (positive mental attitude) and you prevailed. Thank you for setting the bar.
~C.
P.S. Hell week only occurs when you are stoning your suits within a few hours of your flight leaving... turning your hair Ronald McDonald red, then pink, then blacky purple, then orangy brown all within 24 hours....you stay up 30-some hours straight... I am just guessing though. :)
Thanks again to all of you who helped me along the way.. from working out with me, encouraging me, inspiring me, giving me frank advice... and just plain ol' being there for my every need. I appreciate.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Sprinting
I am getting my High Intensity Interval Training in... in the house. Getting stuff together to go to Vegas.. Still need to finish stoning one-piece.
I gotta get. I have some really awesome supporters from Michigan.. Lisa Thieson (pronounced Tyson..like the chicken) and her beautiful daughter Keely. They are sporting Team VQ shirts this weekend at the Y! I am so tickled by this gesture.. I want to make you guys proud... I'll give it everything!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Jack of all trades
Hey guys... I am finally re-doing my hair. So far it's totally kick ass. It's a two-part process so you will get a nice surprise on Muscular Development when the pictures start going up. That's all I am saying. No... no peaks. Sorry.
Everything is coming together. I went posing at the gym today in front of the big mirrors and am pleased with my physique. I really needed this posing session to get more comfy strutting my stuff. I feel awesome about what I am bringing this year.
Still eating cereal and whatnot... I can't express how much you really don't need to eat "clean" all the time.. Yes it's good to eat whole non-processed foods most of the time, but expecting to eat "clean" 100% of the time is a set-up for failure. It's simply not necessary in my opinion. Others may disagree.
Anyway... I feel good, I feel great and I am ready to rock it!!!
~C.
Everything is coming together. I went posing at the gym today in front of the big mirrors and am pleased with my physique. I really needed this posing session to get more comfy strutting my stuff. I feel awesome about what I am bringing this year.
Still eating cereal and whatnot... I can't express how much you really don't need to eat "clean" all the time.. Yes it's good to eat whole non-processed foods most of the time, but expecting to eat "clean" 100% of the time is a set-up for failure. It's simply not necessary in my opinion. Others may disagree.
Anyway... I feel good, I feel great and I am ready to rock it!!!
~C.
Friday, July 18, 2008
One week out progress pics..
I got my body fat checked at the Y yesterday to see what's going on. I calipered at 11% body fat. I weigh 120 pounds even. I lost about 3 pounds of lean mass during the prep... not cool... Should have never stepped foot on that stairmaster.. You live and you learn and when you get it all figured out... THEN and only then do you kick ass. So anyway guys, I hope to God I am able to make it to the finals... only then will I be broadcast on the WWW for you all to see. I'll give it my best shot... I hope I can manage that for you all. (yeah..for me too)
One week out.. excuse the face and hair...
~C.
One week out.. excuse the face and hair...
~C.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Suit update....
Yes... I believe everything happens for a reason. I do believe...
Even though I was quite annoyed with the situation, I wasn't panicked. I knew things would work out. It just sucks sometimes not knowing what the future holds. Anyway... remember how my hair turned out like ass? Well it's all good now because I was referred to Audra's Bridal by the girl who did my hair for alterations. I called Audra and she gave me the name of her back up alteration lady. So yes... Angels do walk the earth and Judy Nielson, took me into her home and altered my suit for me with no notice and when she didn't have to. In fact she was quite busy herself preparing to leave town with her husband. She did it anyway! Wow! This morning I picked up the suit and it fit perfectly! She is amazing! So now I will be using her if possible for all of my suits. So everything DOES happen for a reason.
The support I receive from you all is overwhelming and actually brought a tear. (Yeah VQ has emotions)
So anyway... all is good and right with the world. I am happy to be competing with such stiff competition.. I will definitely learn a lot from the other girls for this comp. I am willing to do my time at the "Big Show" to earn my way to the "Bigger Show."
I am so excited for you all to be able to watch the webcast... I guess I better do some cardio or you will get to see some jiggle in action.
Today is a great day and I will be taking a three hour written, verbal, and practical test in order to keep my job today. I want to succeed. It's been pretty challenging to juggle but I enjoy it immensely. I know I am learning how to handle things a little better every day. I will need this skill for my ultimate dream. It's great preparation for what lies ahead.
Once again... I love and appreciate you all..
Thanks so much!!!
~C.
Even though I was quite annoyed with the situation, I wasn't panicked. I knew things would work out. It just sucks sometimes not knowing what the future holds. Anyway... remember how my hair turned out like ass? Well it's all good now because I was referred to Audra's Bridal by the girl who did my hair for alterations. I called Audra and she gave me the name of her back up alteration lady. So yes... Angels do walk the earth and Judy Nielson, took me into her home and altered my suit for me with no notice and when she didn't have to. In fact she was quite busy herself preparing to leave town with her husband. She did it anyway! Wow! This morning I picked up the suit and it fit perfectly! She is amazing! So now I will be using her if possible for all of my suits. So everything DOES happen for a reason.
The support I receive from you all is overwhelming and actually brought a tear. (Yeah VQ has emotions)
So anyway... all is good and right with the world. I am happy to be competing with such stiff competition.. I will definitely learn a lot from the other girls for this comp. I am willing to do my time at the "Big Show" to earn my way to the "Bigger Show."
I am so excited for you all to be able to watch the webcast... I guess I better do some cardio or you will get to see some jiggle in action.
Today is a great day and I will be taking a three hour written, verbal, and practical test in order to keep my job today. I want to succeed. It's been pretty challenging to juggle but I enjoy it immensely. I know I am learning how to handle things a little better every day. I will need this skill for my ultimate dream. It's great preparation for what lies ahead.
Once again... I love and appreciate you all..
Thanks so much!!!
~C.
Stoked..
OK guys now I am totally stoked... not only is Jessica mailing me a back up suit in case stuff doesn't start panning out, but I totally found the coverage for the event. The USA's will be WEBCAST!!!! Do you hear me? It will be on the WWW for all to see. Here is the information about how to view it:
http://blog.bodybuilding.com/ProAmContests
Also if you want to SEE the other girls I will be competing against.... there is a pictorial here: (pretty scary to be honest)
http://scottsspotlightbbathlete.blogspot.com/
~C.
I don't care about no stinkin' suit... ain't nothing gonna breaka MY stride! It's all good baby...it's all good. Let the games begin!!!!
http://blog.bodybuilding.com/ProAmContests
Also if you want to SEE the other girls I will be competing against.... there is a pictorial here: (pretty scary to be honest)
http://scottsspotlightbbathlete.blogspot.com/
~C.
I don't care about no stinkin' suit... ain't nothing gonna breaka MY stride! It's all good baby...it's all good. Let the games begin!!!!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
One piece today
Got my one-piece today.... it doesn't fit... way too big in the chest and too long in the torso.. No time to send it back, have it altered, receive it and stone it before I leave for Vegas. This cost me $245!! Nice...huh?
Luckily I was able to find a lady in town to do the altering for me at the last second. She had me come over to her house tonight and will be able to fix it for $50.
So... approx $300 total.
I ordered a back up one-piece suit from CCFitwear and hope it fits... because at this point I don't even want to wear the one-piece from the original designer. Not happy with how things went down whatsoever.
Lesson learned.
Hope all is well with everyone and congratulations to Tina for a great showing at the Flex Wheeler Classic last weekend!
~C.
Luckily I was able to find a lady in town to do the altering for me at the last second. She had me come over to her house tonight and will be able to fix it for $50.
So... approx $300 total.
I ordered a back up one-piece suit from CCFitwear and hope it fits... because at this point I don't even want to wear the one-piece from the original designer. Not happy with how things went down whatsoever.
Lesson learned.
Hope all is well with everyone and congratulations to Tina for a great showing at the Flex Wheeler Classic last weekend!
~C.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Suits.....
My suit is turning out like ass. (only two s's) I have two one-piece suits hopefully on their way. The best one will win.... and I will be wearing a matching two-piece depending on which one-piece looks the best. I think perhaps I should order more stones???
Yeah I may where my old red suit... it looks good anyway. So anyway... I was thinking about the 34 other girls in the competition... yeah I may have been facing a small amount of doubt about my ability to compete with these girls... but, and there is ALWAYS a but.... I was thinking about my favoritve movie, "Vision Quest." Louden wasn't interested in just winning state titles and scholarships, he was interested in doing the unimaginable: wrestling Shute. I my friends will be metaphorically wrestling Shute. Wow... what kind of story would it be if Shute was top seeded in his class and it was a sure thing that he would win? Not too exciting, huh?
Yeah... let's go out there and make this a good story.
~C.
Yeah I may where my old red suit... it looks good anyway. So anyway... I was thinking about the 34 other girls in the competition... yeah I may have been facing a small amount of doubt about my ability to compete with these girls... but, and there is ALWAYS a but.... I was thinking about my favoritve movie, "Vision Quest." Louden wasn't interested in just winning state titles and scholarships, he was interested in doing the unimaginable: wrestling Shute. I my friends will be metaphorically wrestling Shute. Wow... what kind of story would it be if Shute was top seeded in his class and it was a sure thing that he would win? Not too exciting, huh?
Yeah... let's go out there and make this a good story.
~C.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
I am so freakin' amped!!!!
First of all.....I got my hair done...it looks like asss.... yeah that's 3 s's! I am out $150 and had to go find a new place to tan because I am so irate I don't even want to see those people again. Second of all..... I am over it..... no seriously I am over it because I am hitting the beauty supply on Monday and doing a complete do-over myself!!! Yeah. Me. I am going to freaking love it too. Why? Because I know exactly what I want and I know exactly how to get there.
Ok back to my PMA... Well I am back on mid-shift. It's the chill life... no early mornings, no hot sun, blah...blah.....sleep all day... I freakin' love it!!!!
Thanks for the lovely comments once again and a special thanks to the Box Elder Police Department for being my biggest fans. (Sponsorships are welcome and encouraged).... maybe you guys could all get together and raise money for me to compete in my first Pro show........
I am feeling sassy today, can you tell?
I am off to check out Tina's blog and I'll see you guys in a few weeks... with brand new kick ass hair!!!
~Love,
C.
BTW... I have no plans to continue to lean out. I don't want my back to get any leaner and my dh is digging the booty...
Ok back to my PMA... Well I am back on mid-shift. It's the chill life... no early mornings, no hot sun, blah...blah.....sleep all day... I freakin' love it!!!!
Thanks for the lovely comments once again and a special thanks to the Box Elder Police Department for being my biggest fans. (Sponsorships are welcome and encouraged).... maybe you guys could all get together and raise money for me to compete in my first Pro show........
I am feeling sassy today, can you tell?
I am off to check out Tina's blog and I'll see you guys in a few weeks... with brand new kick ass hair!!!
~Love,
C.
BTW... I have no plans to continue to lean out. I don't want my back to get any leaner and my dh is digging the booty...
Friday, July 11, 2008
Two weeks out progress pics...
Hey guys I have a few pics we took this morning. I am wearing my suit from last year.... this hasn't really been a short amount of time. I started dieting the last week of February I believe. I started at 138 and now weigh 120 four and a half months later. I lost about a pound a week. My diet was never strict. In fact I have been eating microwave popcorn, cereal, honey roasted cashews, and indulging in the Culver's blackened chicken salad with blue cheese, avocado, pecans and ranch dressing almost daily.
I have jogged with my dog 3 miles about 4 to 5 times a week and have only hit the stairmaster less than a dozen times. I only went off the deep end one week, and that was due to my own impatience and stupidity. I attribute being able to do this to making sure I kept my enthusiasm in the gym. If I didn't want to be there, I went home. Most times I wanted to be there... and I wanted to progress. Overall this prep has been great and you guys have been great as well. Thanks for all of the tips and help and thank you for following my journey.
Oh yeah...and one more thing... I didn't pump up for these pics. :)
~C.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Today's lesson
Today's lesson will be perseverance.
This contest, I have a feeling... will be a true test of whether I can take the heat of stiff competition. Many, many, many beautiful, muscular, experienced women will be going after exactly the same thing as me on July 25th. Jessica posted a link to the competitor list for my show. It's at http://www.harbody.com There are lots of other sights covering it as well, I'll get a list put together before the show.
I just went through and googled most of the girls. Feels like someone just socked me in the gut. Wow. These girls are amazing. I want to be amazing also. I don't think any of them walked into their first National competition amazing. If they did... they still wouldn't be competing at the Amateur National level... they would be Professional. I have to keep that in mind... do my time. Get the experience I need. Keep my chin up, and do the best I can.
Most of all, I have to ease up, and have the time of my life. I have done some really hard work this year while juggling a ton of things. It's harvest time!!
Love,
C.
This contest, I have a feeling... will be a true test of whether I can take the heat of stiff competition. Many, many, many beautiful, muscular, experienced women will be going after exactly the same thing as me on July 25th. Jessica posted a link to the competitor list for my show. It's at http://www.harbody.com There are lots of other sights covering it as well, I'll get a list put together before the show.
I just went through and googled most of the girls. Feels like someone just socked me in the gut. Wow. These girls are amazing. I want to be amazing also. I don't think any of them walked into their first National competition amazing. If they did... they still wouldn't be competing at the Amateur National level... they would be Professional. I have to keep that in mind... do my time. Get the experience I need. Keep my chin up, and do the best I can.
Most of all, I have to ease up, and have the time of my life. I have done some really hard work this year while juggling a ton of things. It's harvest time!!
Love,
C.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
121
121 even. I don't have time for pics today, but Friday I will post progress pics.
Adapt. PMA. Lead by example. Believe. Faith. Vision. Conviction. Confidence. Overcome. Choice. Persevere. Persist. Desire. Dedication. Self-discipline. Grab. Proactive. Invent. Create......... Suck it up!!!
~C.
Adapt. PMA. Lead by example. Believe. Faith. Vision. Conviction. Confidence. Overcome. Choice. Persevere. Persist. Desire. Dedication. Self-discipline. Grab. Proactive. Invent. Create......... Suck it up!!!
~C.
Monday, July 7, 2008
So I am out running.....
I keep running by these houses with all kinds of recreational toys like speed boats, 4 wheelers, RV's.... I was thinking about why I can't seem to pull my life together enough to find time to do this stuff. I wonder how these people are so super human that they manage to find all of this free time.
Then it hits me. As I am running I realize that THIS IS my free time!!! Just as those people find their joy and relaxation in the leisurely camping trip.... I find mine in the gym, out on the road, and on the stage. It's my choice... my preference... there is nothing wrong with me.
There will be plenty of time for that other stuff. This is what I want now. This is what is calling me. This is exactly what I want to be doing and I LOVE it.
I am on a Vision Quest.
~C.
Then it hits me. As I am running I realize that THIS IS my free time!!! Just as those people find their joy and relaxation in the leisurely camping trip.... I find mine in the gym, out on the road, and on the stage. It's my choice... my preference... there is nothing wrong with me.
There will be plenty of time for that other stuff. This is what I want now. This is what is calling me. This is exactly what I want to be doing and I LOVE it.
I am on a Vision Quest.
~C.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
WOW!!!
Holy cats... it's all coming down to the wire. I got crazy on Ebay using the balance in my PayPal account for stage makeup and jewelry. The jewelry I bought I will not be using... it sucks. I haven't got my makeup yet... soon. I still need to get:
lip stick in Spice It Up by MAC
Urban Decay eye primer stuff
fake eyelashes... (I found some that are cat eye type the other day but can't find them now)
earrings....
Oh yeah.... my beautiful husband bought me THE most beautiful bracelet to wear on stage... THE MOST BEAUTIFUL. It's huge... I LOVE IT. I just need some earrings now.
I am working a few 12's this week, so will only have time to jog with Lizzy on those days.
I am working the four days before I leave and the four days after I get back... so I won't lose many hours. Also, I may need the money to go on to compete in New York. I really want to go Pro... really badly. I hope to God that my one-piece turns out. I think my physique is turning out. I just have to get my posing in every day, every day, every day.... no shaking legs this time.
I haven't forgot about any of you and can't wait to be able to hang out on your blogs again. Please don't consider this an abandonment.... just a little hectic right now.
~C.
lip stick in Spice It Up by MAC
Urban Decay eye primer stuff
fake eyelashes... (I found some that are cat eye type the other day but can't find them now)
earrings....
Oh yeah.... my beautiful husband bought me THE most beautiful bracelet to wear on stage... THE MOST BEAUTIFUL. It's huge... I LOVE IT. I just need some earrings now.
I am working a few 12's this week, so will only have time to jog with Lizzy on those days.
I am working the four days before I leave and the four days after I get back... so I won't lose many hours. Also, I may need the money to go on to compete in New York. I really want to go Pro... really badly. I hope to God that my one-piece turns out. I think my physique is turning out. I just have to get my posing in every day, every day, every day.... no shaking legs this time.
I haven't forgot about any of you and can't wait to be able to hang out on your blogs again. Please don't consider this an abandonment.... just a little hectic right now.
~C.
Friday, July 4, 2008
To all the peeps out there trying to reach their goals:
Go get it killer!!! Be Proactive NOT Reactive....That's the spirit. Doubt is the enemy! Fear is the enemy! Go after it and get it girl! Kill it.
You control you..... You're the boss of you...... If you want it, go out and get it!!! It's out on the street, in the gym... and it's waiting for you to kill it!
The time has come....the time is now.
~C.
Guys.... I am going to catch up on your blogs as soon as possible..... I am still checking.. EM: WOW girl... you look awesome! Soon...
You control you..... You're the boss of you...... If you want it, go out and get it!!! It's out on the street, in the gym... and it's waiting for you to kill it!
The time has come....the time is now.
~C.
Guys.... I am going to catch up on your blogs as soon as possible..... I am still checking.. EM: WOW girl... you look awesome! Soon...
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Comments
Thanks for all of the helpful comments guys... I haven't had the chance to reply individually but do appreciate them all.
I am moving back to midnights in a week or so... can't wait to get out of the heat and get a decent day's sleep. I am learning so much lately... learning how to adapt quickly... learning how to be flexible and roll with it.... learning how the average American really is challenged to find the time and energy to work out regularly with a crazy work schedule to contend with. Learning how to have moderation in my life... especially food. Learning how PMA (positive mental attitude) really is everything in this life. You can either look at the bright side of all things or not. It's what you make of it that counts. I definitely needed this experience. Learning to smile at people just for the hell of it... (I honestly didn't know that was a requirement). oops
I can't wait to go to Vegas... I can't wait to compete. I can't wait to see how I handle the outcome... I want to make the most of our trip.
It's possible that I might be maturing a little bit. ?????????
Happy 4th of July... be safe guys.
Love,
~C.
I am moving back to midnights in a week or so... can't wait to get out of the heat and get a decent day's sleep. I am learning so much lately... learning how to adapt quickly... learning how to be flexible and roll with it.... learning how the average American really is challenged to find the time and energy to work out regularly with a crazy work schedule to contend with. Learning how to have moderation in my life... especially food. Learning how PMA (positive mental attitude) really is everything in this life. You can either look at the bright side of all things or not. It's what you make of it that counts. I definitely needed this experience. Learning to smile at people just for the hell of it... (I honestly didn't know that was a requirement). oops
I can't wait to go to Vegas... I can't wait to compete. I can't wait to see how I handle the outcome... I want to make the most of our trip.
It's possible that I might be maturing a little bit. ?????????
Happy 4th of July... be safe guys.
Love,
~C.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Skinny jeans
Wore my skinny jeans to Borders tonight. Yup...THE skinny jeans. The size 2 skinny jeans. They aren't even that tight. I am officially skinny...... those pics are deceiving aren't they. It only took me four months to go from fat to skinny. One-third of the year. No biggie... I wasn't doing anything anyway.
This prep is going well... I think only one big binge and one bad week. Both at the same time, and a lesson was learned. No need to go without carbs..ever!!! I am pretty relaxed about the show. Mostly because I know it won't make me and I know it won't break me.. I know I don't have to prove anything to anyone and especially myself. I know my value as a human lies in my soul and not my body. I am doing this because I eat this shit up. There isn't a day that has gone by in the last two years that I haven't thought about competing in figure. That's pretty much what dominates my thoughts. I tried to diversify and start cake decorating... but most of us remember what happened there. It just wasn't going to happen. I am meant to do this.. this is friggin' awesome.
I am so thankful that I am able to do this... wow....so fortunate.
Love,
~C.
This prep is going well... I think only one big binge and one bad week. Both at the same time, and a lesson was learned. No need to go without carbs..ever!!! I am pretty relaxed about the show. Mostly because I know it won't make me and I know it won't break me.. I know I don't have to prove anything to anyone and especially myself. I know my value as a human lies in my soul and not my body. I am doing this because I eat this shit up. There isn't a day that has gone by in the last two years that I haven't thought about competing in figure. That's pretty much what dominates my thoughts. I tried to diversify and start cake decorating... but most of us remember what happened there. It just wasn't going to happen. I am meant to do this.. this is friggin' awesome.
I am so thankful that I am able to do this... wow....so fortunate.
Love,
~C.
Suit
Sent suit back to get straps sewn down and butt made a little skimpier. Yep... skimpier.
I first traced the triangles from the top to a piece of paper so I can get my crystal pattern laid out so when it comes back all I will have to do is mindlessly glue them in place.
Physique is on track.... all I need to work on is posing!!! So much that it becomes natural.. quite natural..
I found these awesome videos on YouTube about how to do eye makeup. I was considering having it professionally done because I really like the way Noel Clark's makeup came out for Junior Nationals. However, it costs $150 and there are two separate days that I would need it done. So this is what I have decided to do... I have decided to do my own makeup since I would rather keep whatever products I need to buy so that I can do multiple shows if necessary.
I am excited. Now if anyone wants to vote whether I water deplete or not...that would be cool, because right now I am undecided.
~C.
I first traced the triangles from the top to a piece of paper so I can get my crystal pattern laid out so when it comes back all I will have to do is mindlessly glue them in place.
Physique is on track.... all I need to work on is posing!!! So much that it becomes natural.. quite natural..
I found these awesome videos on YouTube about how to do eye makeup. I was considering having it professionally done because I really like the way Noel Clark's makeup came out for Junior Nationals. However, it costs $150 and there are two separate days that I would need it done. So this is what I have decided to do... I have decided to do my own makeup since I would rather keep whatever products I need to buy so that I can do multiple shows if necessary.
I am excited. Now if anyone wants to vote whether I water deplete or not...that would be cool, because right now I am undecided.
~C.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Traditional pics upon request......
I'm still not that lean yet... last 4 weeks is when all the magic happens.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
The time has come....
I guess the time has come to figure out what to do AFTER the contest... Do I dare try to prevent postcontest blues?
I would actually if I thought trying to prevent it would help.
Here is what I have learned from life: Life is lived in cycles, expansion and contraction. It will be quite natural for me to "crash" so to speak after the show... this time I will respect the natural cycle of life, respect it, go with it, endure it, then get on with my life.
With the above in mind, I will intuitively eat whatever I want while doing the best I can to respect my body's natural hunger signals. I understand after a long period of doing without certain foods (such as Taco John's Super Nachos) that I may be more apt to overeat. I understand this. I also understand that the more fat I gain after the show, the more sluggish and miserable I will feel. I will take care to gain my fat slowly as to not cause a complete shock to my system.
This year instead of a long list of foods I will eat, I will refer to my long list of things I would like to do.
~C.
I would actually if I thought trying to prevent it would help.
Here is what I have learned from life: Life is lived in cycles, expansion and contraction. It will be quite natural for me to "crash" so to speak after the show... this time I will respect the natural cycle of life, respect it, go with it, endure it, then get on with my life.
With the above in mind, I will intuitively eat whatever I want while doing the best I can to respect my body's natural hunger signals. I understand after a long period of doing without certain foods (such as Taco John's Super Nachos) that I may be more apt to overeat. I understand this. I also understand that the more fat I gain after the show, the more sluggish and miserable I will feel. I will take care to gain my fat slowly as to not cause a complete shock to my system.
This year instead of a long list of foods I will eat, I will refer to my long list of things I would like to do.
~C.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Christmas in June
After starting my day with oversleeping yesterday... I managed to use my PMA to get to work on time. First day in forever I went without my usual breakfast. Used my ability to adapt to get through it. While out on post I put out a basewide call for coffee... three responders.. Supervisor, base cop, and husband...
Thanks to a team effort I managed to get through the day intact.. and follow a 12 hour shift with a good workout with just enough time (5 hours) to wake up and repeat.
Like I said... if I can get through this week, I can do anything.
As I stumbled in the house late last night, I was greeted by a dog that has almost given up on life and three packages... Janatana, my Swarovski crystals and ..............................................................................................................................................................................................my two piece!!!! It is absolutely beautiful and fits like a glove!!! Once again Caroline from CCFitwear has nailed it again! Christmas in June!!!
I am stoked and pray for a beautifully fitting one-piece to match as well.... oh and a little time to put the stones on. (that would be nice)
Take care... next day off: Monday (Progress pics)
~C.
Thanks to a team effort I managed to get through the day intact.. and follow a 12 hour shift with a good workout with just enough time (5 hours) to wake up and repeat.
Like I said... if I can get through this week, I can do anything.
As I stumbled in the house late last night, I was greeted by a dog that has almost given up on life and three packages... Janatana, my Swarovski crystals and ..............................................................................................................................................................................................my two piece!!!! It is absolutely beautiful and fits like a glove!!! Once again Caroline from CCFitwear has nailed it again! Christmas in June!!!
I am stoked and pray for a beautifully fitting one-piece to match as well.... oh and a little time to put the stones on. (that would be nice)
Take care... next day off: Monday (Progress pics)
~C.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
122
I weighed 122 this morning... I think I'll go to Culver's today for an awesome salad... the one with all kinds of blackened chicken, avocado, pecans, and blue cheese: YUM (had one yesterday too)
I went shopping yesterday and bought a bikini for a photo shoot.. only one I tried on and fit like a glove. I bought a black track suit 50% off to run around Vegas in. Oh yeah and a cute little short denim skirt (size 5).
Overall a good day of shopping.
I am ordering some numbing spray.. I attempted my first Epitorture session of the season last night and didn't get too far... talk about ouch! Holy crap.
Anyway... have a nice day.
~C.
I went shopping yesterday and bought a bikini for a photo shoot.. only one I tried on and fit like a glove. I bought a black track suit 50% off to run around Vegas in. Oh yeah and a cute little short denim skirt (size 5).
Overall a good day of shopping.
I am ordering some numbing spray.. I attempted my first Epitorture session of the season last night and didn't get too far... talk about ouch! Holy crap.
Anyway... have a nice day.
~C.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Breakfast....
Breakfast is the ultimate reward for surviving yet another day.
About the shoe issue.... I am keeping mine and just detatching the sparkles... it looks to be a simple process.
Days shift is hell... I was sweating buckets before 9:00 A.M. This could be a good thing to help me lose my last few pounds, right? I hope so anyway...
I just wanted to take this opportunity to officially thank the National Physique Committee for bringing booty back... (my ass thanks you as well).
Have a great day!
~C.
About the shoe issue.... I am keeping mine and just detatching the sparkles... it looks to be a simple process.
Days shift is hell... I was sweating buckets before 9:00 A.M. This could be a good thing to help me lose my last few pounds, right? I hope so anyway...
I just wanted to take this opportunity to officially thank the National Physique Committee for bringing booty back... (my ass thanks you as well).
Have a great day!
~C.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
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