I can remember when I used to be 178 pounds. I realized my entire family was big, therefore I would always blame my size on genetics. One day I realized I did not want to be dominated by family genes, I knew I was different and I wanted to show the world what I could do. At first it began with switching from eating in bowls to plates. Just a simple switch to show you what you are eating can make all of the difference. I also stopped taking seconds. I would run, and run, and run some more. Now a days, running is a seasonal thing for me, I only do it in the fall. I calculated calories, down to the wire. I even experimented with different workouts such as Jillian Micheal's. More recently, when I fell in love with the sense of pride and the beauty of IFBB women competitors, I picked up an at-home crossfit routine. I found that I wasn't building the definition that I wanted with at-home crossfitting and picked up my first pair of weights. Ever since that one day, I love proving people wrong when they say things such as "You are a girl, you can't lift." I also love to amaze individuals who haven't seen me in years who thought I would be fat forever. They always ask me the exact same thing: "What is your secret?" or "How'd you do it?" and I know they are looking for the easy way. A simple answer. My response is the same EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.:"I got off my butt, quit eating junk, and decided I was doing this for myself and no body can stop me, even though lord knows many have tried."

I love working out because I love the rush that it provides. I love that my weights will always be there even when others aren't. I love that no matter my mood, my workouts will put up with me. I love how I challenge myself to do more. I love seeing progress. I love becoming a better me.