We all need a starting point.

Before and after pictures are so inspiring. It's incredible to be able to literally see someone's hard work and dedication.  Well, here is my before.  Let's hope the after is inspiring!

The Beginning.

Approximately 4 months ago, I cheered on one of my good friends at a body building competition.  While I was in my seat, thoughts of inspiration and ambition flitted through my mind.  I left the show filled with curiosity laced with denial.  "Could I compete on such a stage?"  "No, I’m not tough enough."  "No, I don’t have the amount of determination and willpower that is needed to stand in front of a panel of judges in a bikini." 

For the entirety of my drive home, I was talking myself out of competing.  My heart was telling me that I could do it, and enjoy it, but my head was telling me that I would only fail, that I didn’t have it in me. 

After a few weeks of teetering on the brink of decision, I've finally decided that I will be competing in the 2012 Fox Cities Showdown in the bikini division.  I have a knowledgable coach, a wonderfully supportive boyfriend and a great group of encouraging friends.  Here I go!