First things first - YES Sandra, WE MISSED YOU!!!!!!!! It is actually funny you asked because backstage (ok on stage too while warming up routines before night show with our typical 'it's time to have fun' Kimes style dancing) we were saying just that. For those of you that have never been backstage to see the crazy trail mix eating, dancing and singing fitness competitors hopped up on adrenaline and sugar, I just have to say, you are missing out. And while we had a great time, it just is not the same without Sandra (actually, Semsch too - we missed her at the last few shows). By the way, good luck this weekend, we will be watching
Many have said it and they are sooo right - if this ain't fun, don't do it. This sport should be about finding your own personal best. My goal with each show is to come in better than I did the time before and to learn something new about myself. The process that gets you to the show, as hard and trying as it maybe, is the reason to do it. Knowing that you can shape your body the way YOU want it to be is the goal. Overcoming obstacles, being creative and balancing life in the meantime are the challenges that make it worthwhile. Is it hard – heck yes, but everything worth doing is hard.
Here is how I really feel - after so many months of intense training and dieting the show should be your icing – your time to stand on stage and say – ‘look what I did’. It is an incredible privilege to get to compete as an IFBB Pro and I thank God that I have been able to make it onto that stage in the first place.
Don't get me wrong, I want to win and work my ass off to do the best I possibly can, but I try to come into every show feeling like I have accomplished a personal win regardless of what the judges say. Because with all due respect to the judges, I have to live with the body that I create and the name that I make for myself. Of course, it is nice to do well and a little easier to say after 11 pro shows
Katie, it was great to see you, we definitely miss you and I am so glad that you enjoyed my routine. The crowd participation made it really fun and I walked off stage thrilled with what I had done. Actually, I still think that round was my best round personally in Atlantic City so I am happy.
Anyhow, the show was a very good experience and I am so excited to see some new women with strong routines competing. Erin & Holly had incredible routines and I really enjoyed watching them. Congrats to Tracy on another pro win! Bethany Gainey looked amazing and I really like her physique. Congratulations and I look forward to competing with you at the Olympia!
See you all next week!
Julie Lohre