I've worked out on and off over the years on a self guided, amateur level, without a lot of research or intensity. I have always done a quick Atkin's Diet for a couple months to drop down to what I considered to be an acceptable/hot bikini weight for the beach, then the rest of the year I pretty much have done what I wanted without regard for my health. I ate what I wanted, smoked, and rarely went to the gym or exercised.

In recent years I have noticed it is more of a struggle to do these yo-yo diets, they are not satisfying, and I don't feel and look great consistently as I would like. I have completely changed my eating habits, have joined a gym, and am spending all of my free time either working out or studying bodybuilding/working out/nutrition.

This has become a passion for me and I truly believe that I can transform my body for life. I used to do it by diet alone and without the health. Now I want to do this right because I intend to live a great and healthy life until I am at least 100 years old :) I think the only way to do this is by honoring the great machine (which is my body and God given) by treating it well, training it, and feeding it all of the right things.

This transformation is physical, mental and spiritual for me. I intend to surround myself with motivation from each of these areas on a daily basis, because I believe one thing is important to remember.......Lack of Action is the Only Possible Opportunity for Failure.

So far, I just love knowing that I am doing what is right for my body , mind and spirit. I love the self confidence that begins to develop as a result of sticking to a plan and being disciplined. I enjoy the burn of my muscles, the soreness, the beating of my heart, and the sweat on my brow that tells me that my body is working hard.

I love the nutrition focus and eating with purpose. A purpose that really considers what the body needs, rather than randomly eating for pleasure. I also love the bodybuilding lifestyle that I see reflected in so much of what I read where the focus is on being healthy, and working out, not drinking, partying and smoking. The idea that you can do something productive with your body and time that leads to a longer , quality filled life in the future is something with which I highly agree.

I love MYSELF and I intend on making MYSELF the best ME I can possibly be, so that I can be pleased with my progress and help/inspire others to change!! I cannot be stopped and I will succeed! Look forward to some great "AFTER" pictures!!!