DAY 1,202,508,302

OK, it's really DAY 22 but I gotta tell you, it feels like much longer! I'm not sure where to start this week. Let's start with the positive, shall we? I continue to feel that my body is performing better to some degree. I'm so incredibly grateful for that because the truth is I don't necessarily feel more energy, per se. I actually feel tired pretty much all the time. This can certainly be attributed to the fact I've stepped up my schedule-adding more classes-and we all know that the classes are no joke anyway...EVER! Having said that, I'm still able to push myself to keep up (for the most part) and use heavier weights and that makes me feel good. It really does.

I've been a little discouraged because I don't really see a difference in my body. I know it's only Day 22 but when you subscribe to this type of regimen, something so far from the bad habits you've developed, you can't help but feel like the weights gonna come off quickly. It doesn't! And I have to remind myself that I've put in a lot of work and dedicated a lot of effort to picking up the weight in the first place so of course it'll take just as much (and more) for it to come off. My clothes do fit slightly different and that has been a pick me up too.

Thanks so much to everyone of you who ask how it's going or simply show an interest in what we're trying to accomplish. It really is very helpful and inspiring. For me, I think it provides a sense of accountability (I mean who wants to let D3 folks down:-), but it's really great to see other people thoughtful about making changes to improve their own bodies. All the inquiries and jokes and questions truly gives the sense that we're all connected in some way. So thank you and please don't forget about us!

My family and friends have been so supportive in their own little ways. My friends kindly provides a veggie tray at a holiday party (right beneath the brownie tower). My dad picks me up apples and chicken when he's out. It's hilarious but oh so sweet. My mom is still on the fence about this whole thing though. She was delighted when I used my cheat meal to eat a piece of her famous fried catfish (well, 2 pieces). But she also baked me a sweet potato and bought me more for the week! That's progress for her. She just doesn't see why I'd "torture" myself this way. And I try to explain to her that the torture for me has been this tire around my waistline and I'm sick of it, dammit! She'll settle down but she's already asked if I can eat greens as my vegetable on Christmas. We come from a huge family of cooking folks and she can't help herself...oh well.

Now, has this been hard? Yes. Is this the worst possible time of the year to embark on such a journey? Hell Yes! Have I wanted to cheat? And you better know it!!! Do I have any regrets? Not for a second...

And even though I've definitely clowned around on here (gotta laugh to keep from crying), I've definitely come close to tears and have been frustrated and have doubted whether I could do this. And then I remember my goal. I'm lucky to be in this with some of the nicest, coolest chicks around. And how great is it to have Dre be so accessible??!!! I've asked 50 million questions and each time, she gets back to me. I'm sure she's on the other end shaking her head like this girl is going to drive me crazy but she answers, clarifies, repeats anyway. That means a lot. I know she won't stay nice like this for long but I'll take it for now:-) Anyway, I know this is a long one. I've gotta go anyway. Time to eat ;-/

UUUGGHH!!

Karlisa - Thank you for the compliment!! I think you're doing awesome too!! Keep it up girly!!!

I made it thru another weekend and it wasn't so bad but i found myself in a crappy mood this morning and can i just say I'M SO SICK OF SWEET POTATOS!! ICK I’ve never hated something so much in my life. I seriously don't know how I’m going to make it thru 4 more mths of this crap diet!! uuggh I know this sounds so negative but I HATE THIS DIET!! it totally SUCKS! I sometimes would rather not eat than to keep eating this same crap over and over again... The only thing that keeps me sane is when I work out and when I see the other girls who are doing this diet because I know it’s hard for all of us BUT I know we can all do it but it’s NO WALK IN THE PARK!

All the support from everyone in class really really does help! So thanks to everyone who supports us!!

Until next time!! Have a good day D3 Family!!
Xoxoxo
V

Holiday Parties..WHOMP! WHOMP!

Hey everybody,

Sorry but we might all be Debbie Downers this week. I, too, attended my work holiday party and there was quite the spread...chicken, pasta with loads of garlic (smelled incredible), french bread loaves, red velvet cake, chocolate cake, cookies, pies, homemade tomales, homemade salsa. You get my drift. I'd already had 2 of my meals by then but that pasta tried its hardest to seduce me...and in my mind my response was "HELLO LOVER!!!!!". And I sang it and that chocolate cake love songs in my head while I tried to drown it out with the noise of crisp carrot and celery sticks as I nawed and nawed and nawed. You know, it wasn't really that bad. My mind is truly made up after all. What made it hard (and awkward) were all the people sitting there chewing on chicken bones and manhandling tamales in my face and glancing at me with a bit of concern that my plate was overflowing with carrots (sans dip) and a damn apple with tall bottle of water. Since it's work, people were far too polite to ask why I wasn't eating more. Very few people at work know exactly what I'm doing. My supervisor is one of them and he looked over and giggled saying, "Karlisa, sure you've got enough to eat over there. You know there's plenty of food." He's the nicest man in the world but in that moment, I was thinking Ha, Ha Hell mofo!!!!

Which brings me to my next point and probably the biggest challenge thus far-- (TIF) The Irritability Factor. Oh yes, I find myself in a TIF more often than not lately. My brain knows it's my body getting used to me taking better care of it. But whoa...the tummy hasn't gotten the memo. I can't wait until it all syncs up. I had an all-out bi*ch fest last week (which is not like me at all...honest). And, although feeling up to going to bootcamp has been hard, I'm always so hyped once I get there. I always feel soooo much better when I leave. I'm always so glad I stayed for the next class. And honestly, although I don't feel like I look different per se, my body is already performing differently. I want to do more for longer. It takes longer for me to sweat and when I do, it's not as hard. I recover faster. I'm more willing and confident to Push!! So, all in all, I'm feeling good. It ain't easy but like we say, "If it was, everybody'd be doing it."

OK, 1 party down..3 more to go!! We got this!! (That's my brain talking to my tummy.)

Until next time...

P.S. Vicky and Bea ROCK...They were beasting in class on Thursday...And, Thanks Bea for staying on me Friday!

P.P.S Yeah..weekends still suck

Day 13!!

Happy Monday Afternoon D3-

I made it thru another challenging weekend. I had two holiday parties one on friday, one on saturday and a Bears game on sunday and let me tell you... That was SOOOO HARD but I DID IT!! :) I did miss two meals on sunday which i know is soooo not good but it was really hard to bring all my food to a bears game. I did drink a lot of water but that's about all i had all afternoon on sunday until sunday night when i was home and able to eat something. I have to say it's not much fun at a holiday party or a sporting event when your the only sober person and you can't eat anything.
 I find myself going to these parties and leaving early because it's just to hard to stay and watch everyone drink and eat. I felt bad leaving my friends parties early but what can you do. Honestly and not to rush xmas and new years but i'll be so happy when the holidays are over. I don't know about the rest of you but these few weeks have been so hard and many many times i wanted to give up but i didn't. I just kept saying to myself "You can do this, You can do this" and then i'm fine... Good thing i can motivate myself when i need to..LOL

I hope everyone had a nice weekend.

See you all at class this week!
Victoria

Let's Do Thisssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hola Familia D3! Hope everyone is doing well and getting ready for the Holidays. It's amazing how fast time flies. It's almost been 2 full weeks since I have embarked on the biggest challenge of my life. I am so pumped and so excited to share my thoughts and feelings with you.

What a difference a year makes. Back in December '09 I was feeling sluggish and unhappy with myself. Although I was taking a couple of D3 classes a week, I wasn't fully committed to challenging myself and finally becoming healthy. In January, my very dear friend revealed that she became engaged and asked me to be her maid of honor. My goodness - how exciting!! Then she told me that she is having her wedding on a beach. WOW! After I digested the wonderful news, I realized - UH, YOU NEED TO GET ON IT HONEY. YOU NEED TO LOOK GREAT IN YOUR BEST FRIEND'S WEDDING ON THE BEACH!!!! So I quickly started to attend more and more D3 classes until I was at the point where I was taking classes 6 days/week . It was not easy, but I was on a mission. I started to eat a little healthier and cut back a little on the junk food and VOILA - i actually started to like the image I saw in the mirror. The September beach wedding was absolutely amazing and so incredibly romantic. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED BABY - the pictures were fabulous. I felt so proud of myself.

I continued to take classes 6 days/week. I love how it felt. Such a stress reliever. Then I started to get into a little funk. Maybe i should cut back on classes? Now what? I started to read Stephanie's blog and was amazed at her determination and hard work. Then I saw her pictures and WOW, WOW, WOW. Hot mama!!!!!! Bangin' body!!!!

Well here I am with another goal in mind: to follow in Steph's footsteps. Steph, you might not know who I am, but you have truly inspired me. I know this is not going to be easy, but I am soooooooooooooooo looking forward to the end-result. I am so motivated, so excited, so ready to do this. To my fellow comrades - VV, Karlisa, Madison, Elena - LET'S DO THISSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!

Doing great

Happy Friday!!

Good Morning D3 Family – So It's my 10th day on the diet and so far so good but i have to be honest I’ve had a few bad days already... Yesterday for whatever reason i was so down and so hard on myself and it's not even that time of month :)... Anyway, when i got to class last night i wasn't much better i found myself crying just talking to Dre it was crazy. This is probably the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do for myself. Dre did say we would have these moments where we might just be depressed for no reason and DAMN her she was right. I was a mess yesterday, but i have to say once i got to class and started talking to everyone it made me feel so much better. I had a few girls come up to me and ask me how i was doing and of course being the blunt person i am i was like " MISSERABLE" they just looked at me and said "Well, V we can't have that" I wanted to say well I’m sorry but it's just how i feel" but then they went on to say. “We can't have you discouraged and down because a lot of us look up to you for motivation and if you're down we feel down and want to give up”.  Can i just say that made me FEEL SOOOO GOOD!! To those of you who came up to me and said that to me THANK YOU SO MUCH. I'm trying really hard to stay positive and with all your support and motivation it really does help and I’m telling you us girls doing this show are going to need as much support as we can get. This diet and training is not going to be easy.  It's very hard and it’s a lot of dedication but as they say if you put your mind to it you can accomplish anything!!

I’m not only doing this for myself but I’m doing it for Dre aka(POOKIE), my very best friend Bea who I know will also ROCK this show and all the D3 members who work so hard and look up to me. I'm going to give it all i got even if Dre kills me!! J

So again thank you all for believing in me and if i get a little emotional it's just because I’m a very emotional person J and as most of you know i wear my heart on my sleeve and i know i don't hide it well at all especially when I’m feeling blue… So if you see me looking gloomy just tell me to "Get It Together Pookster"!!! :) sometimes those little words means so much!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend & I’ll see most of you at Saturday’s class!!

xoxoxo
V aka (Pookster)

Tips to Prevent Holiday Weight Gain From Dre

Hey all,

Just wanted to give you a few tips on how to prevent the oh so familiar holiday weight gain most people deal with around this time of the year. So here are your 4 good tips:

1. Eat something light before you go to a party so you will not be starving when you arrive. If you are starving, you will eat about 1000 calories or more in little finger foods. Yes, those little bits of food are usually STACKED with fat and calories! Be careful!

2. Do not drink your calories! Alcoholic beverages have tons of calories and the more you drink, the more you stack on the empty calories. I am not saying you can not drink at all...just have 1 or 2 and call it a day. Also, remember, when you are tipsy, your inhibitions are down and you tend to eat more without feeling guilty about it.

3. Workout throughout the holiday season. This is not the time to CHILL and relax. Move your body and either continue your usual routine or start an exercise routine. Don't wait until January like most folks!! Get into NOW!!

4. Weigh yourself every Sunday when you wake up. Go to the bathroom then get naked on the scale (do not weigh yourself daily....this can be discouraging since your body weight can fluctuate due to water weight, high carb intake meals, etc). Keep that number in your head. Do you want to lose a few or at least maintain through the holiday? Be aware of that number so you will keep yourself in check.

Thats all folks...let me know if I can help you in any way.

D3 Members: if you care to blog on this site, let me know. I will gladly give you permission to do so. I would love for you to document your health and fitness journey!

Much Love....and Be Fit! Stay Fit!

Dre

D3 Family

Good Morning D3 family- First off I want to say to Melissa both your classes you taught last night were great. You're an awesome trainer and I’m so happy you're a part of D3. You have such a positive attitude and you know how to keep everyone on track and involved. Great Job Melissa! I can’t wait to take another class with you.

I’m on my 7^th day of dieting and it’s going very well. The one thing I love about D3 is that it really is like a family. The girls/guys at D3 really know how to support each other. It’s so nice to have members come up to me and ask me how I’m doing with all this and that they can see a change in my body already. I’m sure i'm not just speaking for myself when i say this but i'm my worst critic and most of you who know me know how hard I am on myself so for me it really helps to hear the positive feedback from everyone. Thank you all for your support it means so much to me and I’m sure it means just as much to the other girls who are in this training as well. I’m so proud of everyone who is in it and everyone who comes to D3. So many of you work so hard and it really shows. Keep up the great work!

I want to send a special thank you to Constance… You’re such an awesome friend and I have to say you really do keep my spirits up!! You always know exactly what to say to me to get me to laugh or keep me positive and I love you for that..

Jan I want to thank you as well.. I was feeling pretty blah on Saturday afternoon and you pushed me to keep going. I want you to know how much I appreciate that. It’s nice to have someone push me right back because god knows I’m always pushing you!!  J

One last thing.. Michele & your beautiful daughter Taylor i’m so glad you joined D3 you both are a breath of fresh air and you make me smile when I see you both at Saturday classes. Michele thank you again for the sweet, sweet card you gave me awhile back you’re an awesome woman!! I’m so happy to have met you!!

Have a fabulous day!!
Xoxo
V (Pookster)!!

My first Blog that I never was able to post becasue i was in the wrong section of our blog!! OOPS!

Hi Bloggers!! - For whatever reason i was entering my blog's in the wrong section.. OOPS!! So i thought i would re-send this one just to share it with everyone and it was my very first blog!! :)

 I still can't believe I’m doing this. This all seems so surreal to me but in time I’m sure I'll feel different about all of it. The first day wasn't so bad but i did notice I’m peeing A LOT  more than i normally do... :) The diet itself isn't so bad but I have to say it’s a lot of work and at times I feel like I’m eating so much but as Dre aka (Pookie) says "DO NOT SKIP A MEAL" and believe me I won't. I'm very excited about this experience and I’m very excited to see how my body is going to look in 5mths. If you would’ve asked me a year ago if I would do something like this I would’ve said “Hell No” HA but thanks to all the support from my fellow D3 members I’m really going to do this.

Stephanie Hunter has been my inspiration as well as Dre and my very very good friend Beatriz Roman who is also putting her heart and soul into this. I’m so proud of Bea and what she’s accomplished already and I’m so pumped to see what she’s going to look like in 5mths. I know this is not going to be easy for me or anyone who is doing this but with all your support and the support of my family and friends I know it’s going to be an amazing journey for me.

Dre (Pookie) – I want to personally thank you for everything you do for me and for having the faith in me to do this. I can’t believe I’ve been with D3 for 3yrs it’s crazy how fast time goes by and I’m so thankful for everything and everyone in my life. One last thing "Congratulations on your award you’re receiving tonight!"  Love You!

Enough for now!!! I hope everyone has a wonderful day!!

Xoxo
Victoria (Pookster)!! J

Week 2

Good Morning D3 Family-

Well I made it thru my first week and my first Holiday Party!!! I can't lie it was tough but with my friends support at the party it was easy... Little advise "Stay as far away from the kitchen and bar as you can when you're a party" :) I did have times thru out the day over the weekend when i just wanted to give up but i didn't i just kept telling myself 4mths and 20 some days to go i can do this and then i was fine. It's also that time of month and let me tell you it's no walk in park when you're on this kind of diet. Someone at class on Saturday asked me if i was feeling lighter.. LOL i wish i could've said yes but i wasn't and I’m still not. I’m sure it has everything to do with being that time of month. So I’m actually looking forward to being done with aunt flow just to see if i do feel any lighter or better because i couldn't feel more bloated and stuffed as i do right now it SUCKS! but like anything it's almost over and fingers crossed come Thursday or Friday I’ll feel 100% better then i do right now. So I’m curious is it just me or has anyone else experienced this feeling during this time of the month?

I hope everyone had a great weekend and i look forward to seeing everyone at class this week!
xoxo
V

First Weekend

Hey D3 Fam!

Well, the first weekend passed and it was a challenge. And not for the reasons I thought. I learned a tough lesson! I anticipated that the weekend would be rough because of the "extra time" to contemplate all the food I'm not eating. Nope! The problem I ran into was PLANNING!! Dre told us repeatedly the importance of planning our meals. I did pretty well for the week and figured that I'd have time to prepare my weekend meals since I didn't have to work. Uhhhh..no.

I was all set to babysit my month old nephew..overnight. I really thought I was doing something when I packed my little oatmeal and protein. I figured I'd cook the rest as I went along. Needless to say...didn't happen. I missed a whole meal!! Who'd a thunk that little rascal would keep me so busy!! (obviously, i have no children). And then there was an unexpected death and a memorial...

As soon as I got home yesterday, I spent the next 2.5 hours cooking all my food for the week and putting them in their little portioned baggies...Lesson Learned...PLAN, PLAN, PLAN

I've trained for a marathon and I've trained for a triatholon, and yet, I've never felt as challanged as I do now with having to EAT all this food. And it's not the workouts that scare me but the whey shakes!

By the way, who else has set an alarm to wake up to get their last meal of the day in?

Day 1

Good Morning D3!

So, today is Day 1 of our training and prep for the show in May! I've been SOOO excited to get started! That is, until I drank that olive oil this morning...tip: chase it with vitamin C! At any rate, I'm ALL THE WAY IN!! And even though I stared at 40 pictures of food featured in Chicago Magazine's Top Favorite Neighborhood restaurants this morning (for about 30 minutes), I did it while eating my scheduled meal!

I can't lie, I've never met a piece of pizza I didn't like. And I guess they all liked me right back..so much so that they decided to hang around and stick real close to my ribs:-) And although it's never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, I sent his ass and his friends Cranberry and Vodka on their way...I'm sure they'll be fine.

I'm oh so ready for a journey that's been a long time coming! I'm so thankful to be a part of it and I hope you all get something..anything from what we share here. I fully expect this to be humbling (especially when you all see my BEFORE picture:-), challenging, frustrating and hard as hell but I'm so ready for the vision I have of myself on the inside to be on the outside!

Best of luck to my fellow crew!

Karlisa

2nd Annual Diesel Dome Drop Has Begun!!!

Hello All,

We have started the 2nd Annual D3 Diesel Dome Drop Competition. The ladies will be competing in a figure competition in May 2011. The new D3 members selected for this comp are: Vicky the Pookster W, Bea the Athlete Roman, Karlisa Let's Get It W, Elena Latina Hottie M, Dana Shes Ready W, and Madison the Drill Diva K. We may have 2 additional members...not sure yet. Stephanie will also be competing again in May as well!!

The ladies have been given the appropriate diet and have started TODAY! Before pics have been taken along with weigh ins and measurements. We will document their progress through this blog.

Please show your support for the ladies as they TRANSFORM THEIR BODIES!!! Let's hope everyone who starts this journey is able to complete it......I know you can....just PUSH!!!

Be Fit!

Dre

Great things happening at D3!!

Hey all,

I hope you are all well. There are so many good things happening at D3 so I want to take a moment to share all of the news.

D3 Updates:

Madison and Jillian passed their training certifications and are now officially certified!! Great job ladies! You will soon have your own classes...as soon as I think you are ready :)

D3 On Demand is up and running! So far we have over 12 people who subscribe so please check it out when you get a chance at http://d3bootcamp.com/ondemand.html. The videos are amazing and you can watch them as many times as you would like. A new video is posted every Wednesday afternoon! I will be adding Zumba w/ Weights to the videos soon!

The D3 Nutrition Plan launches on January 7th! This plan is amazing and can really change lives. It is NOT a diet, but rather a serious life shift!!

Preview to my DVD: A preview clip of The Diesel Dome Hustle will be taped in mid Feb! I am so excited about this DVD series. This concept is so different....can't wait to see what God has for this!

D3 is all about effective and efficient training.....not just training to train, like most group fitness classes and boot camps. I am now a Heart Rate Performance Specialist and I can teach you how to use your Polar heart rate monitors to work smarter, not harder! If you really want to burn fat, its not about training HARD, its about knowing your heart rate zones and training in your FAT BURN zones. See me if you want to know more...we also sell Polar watches in the D3 office!

Kickbutt Energy Ballz...if you have not tried them, you are missing out! They taste great, have b- 12 for energy but also whey protein and fiber....awesome combo!

D3 is RE-BRANDING in January....can't tell you what we are doing yet...but stay tuned, its HOTTT. Let's just say this, we will no longer be known just for boot camp! D3 is SOO much more than that!!!!

Lastly, I was nominated and selected to be one of the Top 25 Women in Chicago! I am so excited about this honor and plan to keep accomplishing all my dreams!

Thanks to all of you who read this blog. If you ever have suggestions or comments, please add them to the blog.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!! I am looking forward to a fit and fab end of the year!

PRU ~ POST COMP BLOGGIN

WEEK 43 – POST CONTEST: Thursday, November 18, 2010
Well it’s been almost a week since my first figure competition and I can tell you I am still just walking around in disbelief and excitement! I am also a little lost … been taking it easy this week - just cardio – which is so strange. Don’t get it twisted though; I have a game plan so I will be back in the gym hard for the D3 show!!! Gotta maintain … Gotta maintain!

I don’t even know where to start. There is so much I have to share. I have received so many wonderful and positive comments from everywhere! I want to again thank my D3 family … this is an accomplishment for all of us!!!

The thing that most resonates right now is that so many people are telling me that I have now inspired and/or motivated them to get in shape. This is a great thing. What I’d like to impart is that this has been the beginning of a journey of REBIRTH for me. In nine months, I SHED 40 pounds and a lot of doubts, and gave BIRTH to a new, healthier, positive, energetic and “TAKE YOUR DREAMS OFF THE SHELF AND GET THE IMPLEMENTING” - ME! And of course back on track spiritually.

When I look at the before picture - that Dre posted in a previous newsletter this week - I just want to scream! I remember that day so clearly. That’s the day/timeframe that I said to myself … “self … it’s either now or never, so what you going to do playa (smile)!” I was at the heaviest I had ever been in my life and I felt so dowdy. I made up my mind that day that it was time to get the body in order. I had not been to D3 consistently for some time, so I started back and added one more class. Then Dre threw me the ultimate challenge in February 2010 … to be a part of the D3 Dropdown team. I needed it and was so glad that she picked me.

Like all of us, I made up excuses as to why I wouldn’t be able to dedicate the amount of time required – family/work obligations, impending bunion surgery, etc., etc.,. I realized that these were just excuses. Once I commit to something I commit. That’s exactly what I did. The original goal was to just lose 20 pounds by my 45th birthday and 25 pounds by November – a figure competition wasn’t even on the radar. I remember telling Dre, I will be so happy if I can just get down to 135. Once I hit 135,,, it was on! About May, she asked if any of us wanted to do a figure competition and I said I’m in. I just wanted to see how far I could push my body. I listened to Dre and did whatever she asked. I also did my own homework.

There were many hurdles/challenges along the way … some of which I hinted at in my blogs. I won’t go into a lot of it now, but I just want you all to know that this was not a cakewalk. Like most people, my life is not without trials and obligations: family, work, illness, death. However, the D3 motto is so true … there is nothing that can defeat a “made up mind”! And Andrea Everett … yes D3 is truly “life-changing fitness for a made up mind”! And Andrea Everett … YOU ARE THE TRUTH!

On that note, Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I wish you and your families continued blessings! Love you all!


WEEK 43 – POST CONTEST: Monday, November 15, 2010
Well it’s the Monday after my first competition and the fog has cleared a bit (smile)! Let me just say this has been one of the most incredible journey’s of my life!!! Simply incredible! I don’t even know where to start … well first off I know I worked unbelievably HARD to get my body prepared for this competition. Not a cheat DAY, MEAL, SNACK, TASTE!!! I made up my mind that I was going to put my ALL in this and that is what I did.

I didn’t place in the competition – and I won’t lie to you I was truly disappointed because I know I had one of the BEST bodies there – BUT as Dre, my husband and everyone who was there to support me reminded me … the trophy is this awesome, sculpted body that is mine. I want a trophy though (LOL)! I prayed, cried, talked it through and by Sunday after church I was cool with it all. Dre told me after the competition, it is soooooo much bigger than you winning a place in a competition … God has something bigger for you. I love her! More importantly I believe that this is true to my core! I’m not a big believer in God talking to people, but I do know that God has been revealing so many things to me as I embarked on this journey. You see, though I was working to lose weight and to see how far I could push my body, God was re-inventing and re-invigorating my SOUL! He was giving me some much needed spiritual nourishment, as I shed the weight I also began to shed some fears, stagnation, self-doubt, unhealthy thoughts … all that … and I got the old but a more new and mature ME back if that makes sense. I am READY to take my dreams off the shelf and start implementing them and STARTING NOW … that’s exactly what I’m going to do!!! Just had an AHA moment … THIS IS MY TROPHY!!!

Well I have to run for right now, but I’m going to give you a blow by blow of the competition a little later. I had to get those thoughts out right now!

WEEK 42 – FOUR DAYS TO GO

WEEK 42 – FOUR DAYS TO GO
It’s Tuesday night and its taking everything I have to blog tonight. I am just not in the mood. I have lost my focus. As many of you know, Dre lost her sister-n-law and my D3 drop down challenge, workout partner and friend Roz Glanton. I am devastated. The reality of it set in today as I received calls early this morning.

Dre summed it up in her email to the D3 family. Roz was a beautiful, beautiful person! One of the hardest working individuals I have ever met. I would always tell her how much she has inspired me. I admired how she worked through her physical challenges and still managed to lose a RIDICULOUS amount of weight. If she couldn’t lift, she was at the health club, early in the morning swimming. Always positive, always had words of encouragement …

She texted me a week before her surgery to let me know that she was having surgery, and that she was going still going to try and attend my 1st competition to cheer me on. She told me how proud she was of me – which she often did! I sent her a text a couple of days after her surgery to let her know I was thinking of her and asked how she was feeling. She sent a text back, “I’m fine.” My last text to her was … “now don’t be pushing yourself doing P90X at home … I know you!” That was our last exchange.

Roz, your physical presence will be GREATLY missed but your BEAUTIFUL SPIRIT endures FOREVER in our hearts and souls!

Please pray for Dre and Roz’ entire family.

WEEK 41 – EIGHT DAYS TO GO

WEEK 41 – EIGHT DAYS TO GO
Whoa! Today has been rough. I got an early cardio workout in this morning, then had a KILLER training session with Dre. Oh I thought for sure I was going to burst into tears. I had to fight them back. I had to fight through it as best as I could – and of course she is encouraging all the way – but she WILL NOT let you punk out. Ohhhhhhh it was a toughie.

I struggled so hard today for a number of reasons:
SLEEP DEPRIVATION: I CANNOT SLEEP! I am so charged up for this competition that I CANNOT sleep. On top of that my son keeps me up too, as he slaps me in the head and kicks me all night … I gotta get his behind OUT OF MY BED! It’s rough. We won’t even mention the fact that I have to go to the bathroom about every 1.5-2.0 hours from all the water I’m drinking. THIS IS NUTS!!! But I’m loving every single minute of it.

LOW CARBS: The diet for the last two weeks before competition is ROUGH! It is LOW, LOW, LOW carb and its challenging. I barely made it through the workout and NOTICEABLY petered out quickly. However, I was able to lift some heavy weight so I’m pretty proud of myself. Dre threw me another lifeline though and told me I was thinning out to quickly … YEAH BABY! BABY! … so that means I get to add SOME carbs back in!!! THANK GOODNESS! Let me tell you … peanut butter NEVER tasted so good!

Hopefully I will fall out tonight. I really have to get rested. I want to be radiant and beautiful for the competition, not emaciated and burned up!

Props to my hubby Mickey who cooked all my meals for another 5 days or so! YOU ARE THE BEST BABY!!! I LOVE YOU!

That’s it for now!

Hey All I'm Back!!

Man, talk about a hectic 2 weeks!! I feel like I have been through the ringer TWICE! But I am back and feeling great. I actually picked up my workouts lately because I am getting ready to start on my dvd project that I am so excited about. I can't tell you much about it but just know it is going to be fantastic!!

A few announcements!! D3 On Demand is UP!!! Just go to http://d3bootcamp.com/ondemand.html to check it out. A great you can take on line!! I feel very good that it is finally up and ready to go. I already have 4 people who have purchased it and so far they seem to really like it. I will be downloading new videos every Monday. I plan to add multiple videos as we grow. I hope you can try it!

Now, lets talk about a little motivation for you (Mechell...I know you are reading this so I wanted to tell you that I am so proud of you. Keep adding to your days at D3...you are on your way sweets!)

I know some days you really just do not feel like working out...and I have those days too. This is what I do to get through those days: 1. I tell myself that if I can just get to my trainer, I know I will feel so happy and accomplished when I am leaving. 2. I set my Polar watch so that I can track my calories and work efficiently in my zones so that I am not overtraining and that is always a motivation for me. 3. I also think about the way I want to look...if I get up and go to my work out, the closer I am to getting that look. 4. And lastly, I schedule my workouts just like any other appointment and I don't give myself an out!! I consider my workouts and paying myself...and I am not gonna under-pay myself!!

Think about those things when you really do not want to go to your workouts. They help me so I hope they will help you as well.

Next Blog will be on the Heart Rate Performance Seminar I will be leading at D3 this Friday at 7:30pm. I will update you on what I teach them about using a HR monitor to enhance your workouts! I just took my Heart Rate Performance test yesterday so I hope I passed..I will let you know in a weeks but I am pretty sure I did!! So exciting!!

Take care and GO TO YOUR WORKOUTS!!

Dre

PRU ~ WEEK 41 - 2 WEEK COUNTDOWN

WEEK 41 – COUNTDOWN … 2 WEEKS!!!!
Thursday, November 04, 2010
Well it’s been a great week, thus far! I am sooooo charged that I can barely sleep. A month ago I was keeping my competition quest very quiet. I just wasn’t ready for people to know. BUT NOW … I can’t keep my mouth shut! (smile). A lot of it comes from my D3 family … you diva’s are so wonderful to me. AGAIN … I appreciate every compliment, words of support and encouragement. Keep them coming because I’m on the 7-day COUNTDOWN and its only going to get harder from here.

So let’s talk about today. I shifted over yesterday to the STRICT diet. You don’t want to know … that’s all I’m going to say. IT’S STRICT! Let’s just say … if I don’t see or smell another piece of fish for the rest of my life I will be happy!!! I made it through today surprisingly well, but I started running on “E” during class tonight. Thanks Vikki for pushing me! Next days … will be even harder as I cut down more carbs.

I had another posing session with my FABULOUS, PRO-Figure Champion & Coach MATTIE today. I’m just going to tell you … Mattie is the QUEEN OF ELEGANCE! After all, she was my workout/running partner at D3 and then she just disappeared. The next time I saw her a few months later at D3 – her body had transformed into a SCULPTED PIECE OF ART!!! I mean ABS, ARMS, SHOULDERS, BACK, LEGS … I was like … well DAMN! Truth-be-told, Mattie was/is my inspiration for seeing if I could get my body in shape to be able to compete in a figure competition! So I thank you Mattie …

Okay .. back to my posing session … I had to throw Mattie some props. So this posing thing is no joke. I know the poses I need to do – and you all know DRE don’t play when it comes to ANYTHING, she will make you feel like Ike & Tina – but I had some refining I need to do. Mattie is so ELEGANT. She got me straight today - had my BUTT and BACK screaming - but I’m feeling even more confident. I’m in this to win this … so I have to make it do what it do!

So Dre was texting me my weight loss numbers from when we started in February. When we started I was at 159lbs and now 126lbs!!! But why'd she try to cheat me and have me down for "no" - ZERO - weight loss between July and August!!! OH NO … I had to consult with MY CALENDAR and sure enough I lost 6 lbs over a 6 week period. I texted her back with the, UH UH … I went from 139 mid July to 133 late August! I followed the plan … I didn’t CHEAT nor did I stagnate!!! We gotta tell the whole story! It was during that time period that I made a major switch to my diet, so there was no way I could stagnate on the weight. Well you all know Dre ... she texted me back with … yeah “FOOD IS A MOTHER F@$#@$”LOL!!! I said yeah, sounds look a book title or chapter, to me!!!

Okay … I’m going to try to blog every day for my last week, so please hit the COMMENT link below the blog and blog me back. I need your energy to get me through.

Love you all. DRE, MATTIE and JILL … U just don’t know … U just don’t know. I APPRECIATE ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR ME!




Monday, November 01, 2010
God is GOOD! I may or may not have mentioned that I found out - a few weeks back – that my mom is having some serious health challenges right now. For those of you that may not know, my ENTIRE immediate family live in Seattle. So my not being there, has taken me through even more emotions. At any rate, my mother had to have a fairly serious procedure done today. I am happy to say that she is home, feeling well and sounds like she is in GREAT spirits! This has been so heavy on me for the past few weeks, so I give ALL THANKS TO GOD! Please keep her in your prayers.


On the Countdown Tip:
I am just BEYOND charged right now!!! I am literally in countdown mode. I am 13 days away from the big competition! Wow. I am dreaming about it, living it, feeling it. Am I ready yet? Not quite, but I’m getting there. I go through a range of emotions … gotta tweak this, gotta try and pump that … gotta eat this … focus here … gotta, gotta, gotta.

Worked out with Dre yesterday, and as always she kicked my butt! I tell you DRE is THE REAL DEAL! If you don’t know by now … you aren’t taking enough classes! This is one PHENOMENAL WOMAN!!! I have lost a total of 36 POUNDS, since February 2010!!! I have not been at this weight in 15 years! Talk about MOTIVATION! OMG!!! If you don’t believe you can achieve your fitness goals, I am a living example that you can. And it can be done at any age or weight and during any life challenges.

Anyway, it’s 11:00 and WAY past my bed time, BUT my damn job … well I thank God for this damn job … but my manager threw a monkey-wrench in my workout plans, so I find myself up late trying to get reports done, etc., etc.,. It has thrown off my workout schedule today - so I will have to make up for it throughout the rest of the week. Now don’t get it twisted - I worked out … three times as a matter of fact - BUT, I didn’t get in all that I needed. It’s too close to the competition for that, but I feel that I can make it up.

Oh I almost forgot … my posing suit is complete with the bling! It looks good. Of course I have a few more things I’d like added, but Joy did an awesome job. Thanks Joy!

All right good night! Blog me back …

Sunday, October 31, 2010
Well today I had to show off to my hubby. So I put on my posing shoes – they look like hooker shoes … I’m not going to lie - walked into the room with my boy-shorts and bra top and asked my husband if “he liked his wife’s new body” (SMILE)!!! The expression on his face … PRICELESS!!! Even more priceless than that … the expression on the face of my 4 year old son!!! HILARIOUS!!! He looked at me like WTH are you working with! Ahhhhh, the men in MY LIFE! You gotta love it! Needless to say … my hubby LOVES IT!!!

I made it to church today and worked out with Dre. As always, she kicked my butt! I tell you DRE is THE REAL DEAL! If you don’t know by now … you aren’t taking enough classes! This is one PHENOMENAL WOMAN!!! I have lost a total of 36 POUNDS, since February 2010!!! I have not been at this weight in 15 years! Talk about MOTIVATION! OMG!!! If you don’t believe you can achieve your fitness goals, I am a living example that you can. And it can be done at any age or weight and during any life challenges. Most importantly it can be done HEALTHY! There is no quick fix. Plastic surgery is temporary. The effort/work/honesty it takes to GO DEEP WITHIN and re-evaluate your SELF, to have the COURAGE to ask and find the answers to the WHY’S in your inner world - will YIELD a CHANGE in your LIFE that MONEY CANNOT BUY! Now I’m not saying that I got it all figured out, but I can honestly say that along this journey I’m on, I’ve learned and continue to learn about ME!

Well, that’s it for tonight. Two weeks … just two weeks and its STAGE TIME!

PRU ~ WEEK 40 - 2.5 Weeks to go

WEEK 40
Friday, October 29, 2010
Let’s talk about fatigue. I am wiped out. Nothing new … I’ve been coming home the past month like a zombie on Friday’s. I had a great workout today. Looks like my legs are still there. THANK GOD!!! I still have to push, but Dre said they look much better today. I don’t know if it was something I ate or something I did. Dre is going to kill me but on Wednesday morning I did 30 minutes of HIIT on the treadmill. Could that have deflated them??? Not sure … whatever the case PLEASE … don’t let it happen again.

Well … its countdown time. The competition is 2 weeks from tomorrow. I’m jazzed, nervous, all kinds of emotions rolling through my mind. But I’m ready to get this ON! Wish I had more for you tonight, but I’m just EXHAUSTED and I gotta get up early tomorrow and hit it.


Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tonight I’m on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. Dre told me my legs are not ready. I don’t know what the heck happened. It seemed like just two weeks ago they were shaping up nicely, and now they’ve deflated. Oh well … so much for being able to just chisel for the next two weeks, now I’ve got to grind and chisel. Kind of in the dumps about that … not that I was expecting any of this to just be easy. There are no shortcuts to getting your body ready for a competition of this nature. So I’ve got to push.

Outside of that … I also realize that my posing sucks. This here thing is a stone cold trip. There are so many facets to it. Its not just about getting your body together – which is EXTREMELY HARD – you also have to master the various poses. I’m practicing tonight catching cramps, tipping over in these high heels, kicking the top of my foot … OMG … I HAVE GOT TO PULL IT TOGETHER. Focus … Steph … FOCUS.

Some days I swear it feels like 1 step forward, three steps back. Oh well … no sense in dwelling on the B.S. I’ve got 2.5 weeks left and I just have to GET HARD. I got this!!!



Monday, October 25, 2010
Wow. I seriously did not think I was going to make it today. I mentioned my little problem - (See Sunday's post) - and this afternoon I found myself once again in excruciating pain. I had to literally come home and take a shower to get myself right. BUT … I had to get it done, so I pushed myself and got in a weight workout and made it to boot camp. As always, I felt much better afterwards.

At this point I’m not quite running on fumes, but I am feeding off the incredible energy of so many of my Diva’s! You guys have been amazing. Every text, kind-word, has meant so much to me and at this point is keeping me going. I guess the cat is out of the bag ... since Dre put mentioned my journey in the newsletter – thanks Dre … Love you too!!! So now the secret is out. For those of you that have been wondering and asking why my body has transformed this year. It hasn’t been easy and it hasn’t been over night – never forget that as you embark on your own journey.

I’ve got a challenge for you now … work out with me the next 3-7 weeks. Change SOMETHING in your diet, ADD one more CLASS, INCREASE your WEIGHTS and COMMIT to this EVERY WEEK for the next SEVEN. Set a goal to lose XX pounds by the D3 competition – HENCE 7 WEEKS – and strut your stuff! You will be AMAZED at the changes in your body!!! First and foremost, DO IT FOR YOU!!! Are you with me … cause “misery loves company” (smile) … however, this is the good kind of misery!!! Help me cross the finish line … blog me back and tell me if you’re on board and what you’re going to do!

Love you all … see you in three weeks!!!


Sunday, October 24, 2010Whoa! I can’t believe I just typed that this is week 40! Roz, this is week FOURTY!!! I wish this was competition week!

Well, Dre told us to keep it real on this journey blog … so I’m getting ready to get real ‘REAL’ with you. If you can’t handle the truth, I suggest you not read the following (smile). Today, I’m feeling guilty. I didn’t do a thing yesterday. I have the WORST hemorrhoids right now. OMG!!! I was literally in the bed all day yesterday the pain was so fierce. I won’t go into a lot of details, but let’s just say I basically felt like I expelled a BRICK from my body yesterday. OMG … pain!!! My body was just not having it. I could barely get out of bed to make my poor baby his meals … I felt so bad. I’m not sure how I could possibly be constipated – as much water as I drink – but you can best believe I’m going to go over my eating habits to see where I went wrong. I will be DAMNED if I get knocked out of this damn thing because of hemorrhoids. LOL!!!

I wasn’t feeling much better today, but I made myself do some weight training. I actually feel a little better. I’ve got to make up for the cardio tonight … even if it’s light … I will do something. Please don’t fail me now body … we’re almost there!

PRU ~ Week 39: 3.5 Weeks To Go ...

WEEK 39

Friday, October 22, 2010
Wow! TGIF!!! I cannot believe its Friday … so you know what that means … 2.5 more weeks of hard core training & dieting and its SHOWTIME!!! It’s actually three weeks from tomorrow, but it feels better to say 2.5!

Today I was a bit exhausted … I’m exhausted most Friday’s but as always, nothing like a good workout to get you going. Dre had me yelling so hard today that the owner of the gym and his employee told me they could hear me yelling!!! So embarrassing! The funny part is Dre and I were downstairs – hahahahahaha – Dre ain’t no damn good! But hey … I’m seeing the results, so who the heck cares! At least they know I’m not playing. I had to tell them “she’ll whoop your tail too, don’t be fooled. She’s a pretty, little thing, but she ain’t nothing nice!!!” They both shook their heads in acknowledgement!

This week I find myself getting more and more excited about the competition. I’m trying to envision how I’m going to look & feel – makeup, body, color, smile, confidence, suit, poses – all of that. This is going to be such a HUGE step for me on so many levels. I can’t wait!

On another note, I weighed myself and lost another 2lbs since last week … Uh Oh … Can’t lose muscle … inches okay, but no muscle. The crazy thing is I don’t see where, but Dre notices right away, which is crazy to me. To date I’ve lost 32 pounds since February. I haven’t been this small since I was in college. I guess I’d better seriously consider purchasing some new clothes … my partner from work told me that my pants were “GINORMOUS” a couple of weeks ago. One of my fashionista girlfriends just told me she had some clothes she’s been meaning to get rid of – now this girl wears nothing but the best – and told me to come over and see if there’s anything I might want. I think that was a hint that its time to revamp my wardrobe!!! I am … I am … I’m just being realistic … I won’t stay this size forever … I am doing something very extreme right now so why go out and spend money when this will not be my true weight over the long haul? Right?

I tried out the spray tan! Dre is going to kill me, but I had to try this out. The jury is still out on this … I can’t shower until the morning – so we’ll see if it lives up to the hype. It’s all a part of the game. Would be so much easier if I could just hop on down to St. Croix or some other exotic island … Oh well …

Okay, I’m rambling … pray for me … me health, mind, body and spirit. I’m aching all over the place – its all good though. Do pray that I stay healthy till the end. We’re almost there!

Much love!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010
I did HIIT for cardio this morning and the abs came back!!! Yeah baby … but Dre snapped and told me to stick to the program. Those suckers never looked more lovely … I was really getting worried. But … I better listen, she has brought me this far so I have to TRUST in the process. I was afraid that all my hard work was reversing itself, since we cut back on my cardio a week ago.

I treated myself to a body polish and it was FABULOUS!!! My girl Lahoya at Bella Mia is DA BOMB. I almost cancelled, I was so glad I did not. I was sore and fatigued and it was a well-deserved and much needed treat. I could not believe how smooth, fresh and GLOWING my skin looked afterwards. Amazing!

Well I’m exhausted …

Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Sitting in doctor’s office, so thought I’d do a little midday blog. I want to give a HUGE thanks to Mattie – you are a TREMENDOUS support system and I thank you so much for the morning, midday and evening pick-me-ups!!! It means so much to me! I only hope I can pay-it-forward.

My hubby worked me out pretty darn good today. He’s so DAMN HANDSOME!!! He had my shoulders and arms screaming. I told him to NOT to go easy on me and he did NOT disappoint. My tail was shaking – and I was repping out on the final sets. Thank you baby … I know I’m going to be a 1st time title contender … HUNTER PRUITT BABY!!! I LOVE YOU!!!

Right now I’m feeling pretty darn good … I have my ups and downs, and I have to take things day-to-day, but unlike a couple of days ago, I feel like I’m doing what I need to do and not slacking off. Now tomorrow may be a different story (smile) … I’m just keeping it real.

Well I’ve got to get my cardio and the daily’s in tonight so my day is not over yet.

Monday, October 18, 2010
AM-
I’m feeling all over the place - emotionally. When I don’t work out early, I feel like I’m slacking. Because I’ve cut down on so much cardio, I also feel like something is wrong with my training. I just have to trust the process I guess. I have boot camp & weight training tonight.

PM-
I had a great leg day today. Really tried to push myself today and squatted 135lbs, which is far from what I used to be able to do, but I moved up from last week. I’m sure my knees will pay for this tomorrow. My workout today, pulled me up out of the doubts … for the moment anyway. Boot camp was good … didn’t burn as many calories as I would like to so I’m thinking that I will have to do another 20 minutes when I get home. Hey Mattie … thanks for the superpump … you are right … its da bomb!

I was looking at my abs tonight and they look like they are deflating. I think it’s the reduction in cardio. Gonna talk to Dre about doing at least 20 minutes of HIIT on top of stair work. Okay that’s it for now.

Sunday, October 17, 2010
Woke up to a couple of emails from Mattie, who sent me pics from the Nationals in Atlanta over the weekend! Wow the competitors looked amazing and it made me realize that I’ve come a long way, but I’ve got a LONG way to go. So I decided to share my conversation with Mattie on today’s blog:

“ Mattie, thanks for this. I’m really starting to feel this deeply, cuz I’ve been having all sorts of dreams about the competition J

I’ve really got a lot of work to do Mattie. I feel like I’m bullshitting right now, like there is more I should be doing. I don’t want to just go out there and be on stage, I want to win! At a minimum place in the top 3. I know that’s aggressive, maybe even unrealistic for a first-time competitor, but there’s a first in everything right?”

Mattie came back with so much support that I was ready to shed some tears! I was in church too … so you know I was feeling good!

I did so much today/tonight that I know my hubby has got to be tripping. I started out at 9:00 cutting my sons hair, we raked leaves, went grocery shopping, did laundry, cleaned a bit, and so on and so on … I couldn’t stop. In between though I was snapping on both my men … gotta work on that, but a sistah is HUNGRY … and they both seem to work my nerve right when I’m at my weakest point J!!! This is too funny, but I had to apologize to my son! And make it up to him by baking chocolate chip cookies … OMG!!! That’s two weeks in a row this dude has tempted me with the sweets. Not so much as a bite … not even a nibble … SO THERE!!! SMILE!

Oh well, I’m trying to get things together with my scheduling etc., so that I can maximize my workouts and focus on my OBVIOUS areas of weakness – shoulders, butt, glutes. I have every confidence that my legs & biceps will continue to develop … they have never failed me in the past. Those other three areas … I’ve got to really go hard if I want to have a chance to even place.

My hubby is going to work me out twice a week to ensure I get the heavy lifting in that I need!!! He has been amazing … a pain in the butt at first, but I think he’s on board with this. We need a little time together anyway – not that this is the greatest in terms of “quality” time, - but whatever we can get for now is better than nothing. I keep picturing him sitting in the auditorium on competition day, with a big, ole, PROUD grin on his face saying “THERE GOES MY BABY” … and I helped with that!

As always, pray for me and please … blog me back! Three and a half weeks to go!

Part 2 New Beginnings- My Story

Ok, so last week I told you I would tell you my story. Well, here it goes (the quick version:)....

I was never a person who worked out on a consistent basis. I would work out for a few months for a wedding or reunion and then fall off.

Well, in April of 1999, I finally got a "made up mind". I went clothes shopping and NOTHING fit in the size I thought I was! I was so frustrated with myself that I went home and started eating Cool Ranch Doritos and Kool Aid (I know, ridiculous.) Well, as I was eating, I was watching a Lifetime movie (love Lifetime!) and a commercial for the YMCA came on. Now I was living in Raleigh, NC at this time and the Y was SUPER swanky but very expensive. But for some reason, I was just drawn to the commercial. Let me say this too...for those who do not know me, I am known for my...shall we say frugal ways, but I HAD to be a part of this Y for some reason and I did not care what the cost was going to be!

As soon as the commercial ended, I threw away the Doritos and Kool Aid and asked my husband to come and take pics of me in shorts and a tank top (yuck!). I did this because I wanted to post them in my bathroom so I would NEVER look this way again!

The next day, I went to the Y and signed up! I have NEVER stopped working out since that day! I started with 2 classes a week then progressed over time to 5 and six classes a week. I would even take classes back to back! Once I saw the weight coming off and my body changing, I was so inspired!

I then realized that the instructors at the Y were ok. There were 2 I LOVED but the rest were just ok. So I thought, shoot, I can do that too! So in Dec of 1999, I got GROUP Fitness certified and started teaching classes. Now, I could work out and get PAID! You can not beat that!

So that is the short version of my story. Do you want to share your story with me? If so, please reply to this post! I would love to hear it!

Until next week!

Dre

Hello Everyone

So....last week was awesome! I was able to FINALLY get everything finalized on my end for the D3 On Demand launch! Now I have to wait for my web guy to do his part and we are golden. He plans to be done by nextMonday so stay tuned!

Also, I am getting prepared for our D3 Nutrition launch on Jan 7th! Sunny and I are getting prepared and this is gonna be an awesome plan for my members. I can not wait!

D3 is making some SERIOUS changes for 2011...changes for the better! So look out for the NEW AND IMPROVED D3 Coming January 2011.

Stay tuned for more D3 Updates!!

See Ya In Class!

Dre

PRU ~ WEEK 38

WEEK 38
Thursday, October 14, 2010
My suit and shoes – sexy - arrived today!! OMG … this thing is TINY!!! I sure hope I slim down some more because if I don’t … OH NO! I’m going to kill my trainer … half my tail is hanging out. My husband is not going to be happy with this at all. I better get to work on these glutes, because they will definitely be showing.

Now orange is my favorite color … but this suit is SUPER orange. Let’s hope it can be blinged to another level! The shoes are something else. Its becoming more real everyday!

Wednesday, October 13, 2010
I’m writing in middle of the day, because I need the outlet. Can I just say I hit a wall at 7:00 last night. My poor child just wanted to talk and play with his mommy, but all I could muster was an ummm humm here and there. I also found myself wishing it were his bedtime … I know that’s awful, but I’m just keeping it real. THIS SHIT IS HARD!!! This super-restrictive, in-humane diet I’m on is killing me. I can do the cardio, weight training, but this right here … damn. I’m GROUCHY as all get out and I feel so bad, because I’m snapping on everyone, including myself. This is only the fourth day … I have 4 more weeks of this. Pray for me … Pray for me. That’s all I can say.

Whew … Dre threw me a lifeline this evening. I can add a few more things to my diet … still bland, but I can add a few things back in! That perked me up so much I had church right in the gym (LOL)!!! Don’t get it twisted its not much, but it will definitely help with the energy level.

By the way … you know you’re in trouble when your trainer walks into your training session looking like she just stepped out of a fashion magazine, while she’s kicking your tail. Hey she’s done her part I’m just trying to get there!!!

Your prayers must be working … keep them coming, I have EXACTLY 1 MONTH FROM TODAY for the big competition! I’m going to try to blog and post at least every 3 days, so please keep checking in on me and send me some feedback!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010
I made it through Monday without cheating … well, knowingly cheating that is! I only had a packet of Equal with my oatmeal, till my husband quickly reminded me that I had to eat it plain. So I promptly sent a text to my AMAZING trainer – DRE - and sure enough … the answer was NODDA!!! Damn … can I get a little equal, Damn! I went through the rest of the day trying to stick to this BLAND diet I’m on for the next 4 ½ weeks and found myself on an emotional rollercoaster for most of the day. I swear I thought I was going to break down and cry. Jillian saved the day! Thanks Jillian for your kind words of support and encouragement, because I was beginning to wonder if I was just weak.

This is no joke … Dre told me this would be the HARDEST part yet. And I thought getting through the additional cardio was going to be an issue. Huh. This is not for the faint-hearted at all. I’m almost through day two and today was much better than yesterday. My energy level was down significantly and I strained my shoulder in boot camp yesterday. Today’s workout was less than good, it was by far the worst weight training day I’ve had, thus far.

All I can think is that I can’t start getting injured now. I’ve come too far. I will push through this … as always … pray for me!

Sunday, October 10, 2010
I can hardly believe it … 4 ½ weeks to go! This is it … it’s go hard or go home! I am excited!!! Had to blog tonight because this is technically the first day of my ‘EAT SUPER CLEAN’ month – you don’t even want to know. All I can say is … Lord, “I NEED YOU NOW!!!“. I’m trying to “get my mind right”, cause this eating plan is NUTZ! LOL!

Anyway, like I said, I can do anything for 4 ½ weeks … RIGHT? RIGHT!!! I’m like a kid anticipating Christmas. Counting it down, but I know I’ve got to remain focused. I’m having a family meeting tonight to get everyone in the house on board and provide them with some expectations of what they can and cannot expect from me for the next month.

PRU ~ WEEK 37

WEEK 37
Saturday, October 9, 2010
This was a busy … busy week. So I got a little behind on the bloggin. I suppose the next few weeks will be similar, but I will do my best to blog every few days as its going to be rough and I want to share every bit of this experience.

This week I felt rejuvenated – as far as working out is concerned. My mini break last week was well worth it. My training sessions with Dre this week were intense. Friday we worked out WITHOUT gym equipment and only 20lb weights. That was probably one of the roughest sessions I’ve had since the beginning. Now don’t get me wrong … they are all rough, but how the hell do you kick someone’s behind with 20lb weights ONLY??? Only Dre!!! This sister is no joke, but we already knew that!

Thursday, I got CONFIRMATION of my official enrollment into the competition!!! That brought it all home for me! I was so charged I worked my tail off at class! It’s official and real … all I have to do now is stay healthy, continue to train hard, leave nothing on the table and the rest will take care of itself.

Friday my company announced that it will be laying off 1400 sales professionals by December 15th. Oh yeah … life doesn’t stop for me – even though I am Stephanie Hunter Pruitt. I WILL NOT allow this to get me down and I WILL stay focused on all of my goals: personal, family, spiritual, financial and professional.

Pray for me and blog with me! Your support is needed and appreciated!

My New Beginnings and Getting You On A Consistent Road To Fitness!

Hello All,

I am starting fresh today. I decided this weekend to really focus on attaining my goals, both personally and profesionally. I plan on sharing my commitment through my weekly blogs. I have so many ideas and plans but it is very difficult for me to slow down and actually execute my ideas and plans because I typically go at 100 miles an hour and try to cram in as much as I can...but then, by the end of the day, I have really not COMPLETED much of anything! So,my plan is to be much more project oriented and prioritize everything so I can actually make progress.

So, these are my projects for this week:

1. Get my On Demand videos up on my website

2. Work on my Nutrition program for D3

3. Heart Rate Performance Specialist Cert

That's it! I think if I can spend up to 2 hours a day on all the above, I will progress by the end of the week. I will let you know how it's going by mid week.

I am also going to start bringing you advice and tips on making working out a consistent part of your life. Every week I will share info to help you make working out and fitness, a FOREVER habit....for the long haul!

Chapter 1: A Made Up Mind:


Are you always asking yourself the following questions: Why can't I commit to an exercise program? Why can my friends work out on a consistent basis but I can not? Why do I feel this sense of pure dread when I think about going to workout? Well,if you do,you are not alone. So many women and men face these questions daily. And believe it or not, the answer is easy...you Do Not Have a Made Up Mind yet!

What is "made up mind" you ask? Its when you get to the point that you are sick and tired of being sick and tired of your current situation! There is a quote I love that really demonstrates what a made up mind is: "People change when the pain of remaining the same is greater than the pain of change!" Think about that! So true when it comes to life altering changes,right? Are you in enough pain, which can be emotional, mental,or physical, to make the change and choose health and fitness? Unfortunately, I can not give you a made up mind or even tell you how to get one....this is a personally driven decision you make for yourself.

I would urge you to just think about the previous paragraph for a few days. Next week,I will start sharing my story with you and how I got my made up mind.....

Dre

PRU ~ WEEK 36

WEEK 36
Saturday, October 2, 2010
This past week was a doozie to say the least. For the first time in months I lost some motivation and focus. The promise to myself is that I have worked so hard, so after today its back on track no matter what. I am only six months out and I owe it to myself and deserve to complete this challenge.

Let’s start with the “life issues” that got me off track this week … First, without going into a lot of detail, I found out some serious health news regarding my mother about a week ago. This week the gravity of the matter really sank in. Its so hard to watch your parents age and especially when some of their issues could be non-existent if people weren’t so damn selfish. Pray for both my parents please.

Second, our company/industry is/has been going through layoffs for the past three years. This week we (reps) anticipated the first round of a series of rumored layoffs for the remainder of the year. This will be the “third” round of layoffs this year. The company has a history of not telling us what is going on in terms of timelines, etc., and they tend to layoff around Thanksgiving. They announced a re-organization on Friday, but the gauntlet is supposed to swing in the upcoming weeks. So folks are on pins and needles and I guess it’s finally getting to me. It’s rough out here and though sometimes I feel like I need a kick in the ass to pursue my “true passion”, I also realize that I’m not single anymore and I have to think about more than just self. However, I believe that God has my back no matter what and the worst thing one can do is deny themselves of pursuing their passion – especially if you are fortunate enough to know what that is. I have searched for years to nail down what it is for me, and I am certain that after coming to the same conclusion for the past 20 years, I have finally locked it in. So … either way it goes … I’m going for it!

Lastly, my baby was sick. So that too threw me off my workout schedule. Nothing and No one will EVER come before him. So needless to say after a couple of sleepless nights I missed a couple of days of training this week.

I feel so guilty. I have been working so hard and I cannot afford to get lax now. This is the final stretch. All I can think about is the competition that "got their workout on today". I did manage to pull myself together last night and get in an hour of cardio at 10:30 pm. Yes PM and on a FRIDAY NIGHT! That’s because I HAD to do something … today was a different story. I feel like I’ve lost some muscle mass and that frightens me. Today, I purposely decided that my body is tired and needs the rest. It is what it is ... I've just got to correct moving forward. Back in the zone, beginning tomorrow.

On a funnier note ... I know I'm still checked-in, cuz my baby had to bake cupcakes today. Do you all know how hard it was to NOT lick my finger when a drop of the mix got on it. You'd be amazed how quickly your mind will automatically move your lips to lick the spoon! WAIT A MINUTE ... I DIDN'T DO IT!!! Not even a drop! Now that's some mad willpower!

For the next six weeks, IT”S ALL OUT … BRING NUMBER ONE HOME … GET IT GET IT!!! I only have six weeks left and I WILL get this done. Dre said when she competed that people were telling her, you never place in your first competition. We all know what Dre told’em (smile)!!! I feel the same. As long as “I”, CONTINUE to stay FOCUSED and COMMITTED as I have been, NO ONE will STOP me from contending for FIRST PLACE … NO ONE! I’ve got the right trainer, posing coach and mental focus … the body result is just the by-product of the culmination of all this GREATNESS coming together to achieve this feat.

Pray for my family. Please write me … the support is needed and appreciated!

Peace & Blessings!

PRU ~ WEEK 34

WEEK 35
Friday, September 24, 2010
Got my tail whooped again today! Man I’m going to tell you we already know how DRE rolls, but this girl is AMAZING!!! I have been bugging her like a child for weeks, when am I going to see some bulge? When will I get some veinage (new word I made up … you’ll have to ask – smile)? On and on … She keeps telling me like a momma-coach, “it will come Steph … it will come.”. Of course, I’m like “when … when …”? Well, today, I saw a little “veinage (YEAH)!!! And the bulge is becoming more and more consistent! You just don’t know how much this sikes me up! I saw some changes in my arms today, that I had not yet seen before!! This is what keeps me DRIVEN and motivates me to continue to PUSH myself. Even on days when I don’t feel like it.

I am channeling my girl “Flo-Jo” right now!!! Girlfriend, I’m going to make you proud!


Thursday, September 23, 2010
Okay, I’ve been a bit neglectful on the blog tip. My laptop crashed a week or so ago, and I’ve been playing catch up ever since. At any rate, I have so much to talk about. In the two weeks or so since I last blogged, I have had many emotional ups and downs. With this being my 3rd week of incorporating the weight training into my “ALREADY” intense workout regimen … it’s been an adjustment. However, I am ALWAYS glad upon completion and CHARGED.


Last night was particularly challenging, because I had to bring my son with me to class – this is the first time I’ve done this – and I already knew I probably wouldn’t be able to get a good strong workout in because he is only four. To my amazement … he cried for a moment, but with the help of Jillian and Madison he was straight.

To my D3 family … Dre, Jillian, Madison, Paris, and the diva who gave up her bench for me … I cannot say how much I appreciated your supported last night!!! D3 is truly a family. Paris … what can I say … you saw me getting out of my car and had a step waiting for me! Jillian … thank you for grabbing my weights, Madison thank you for checking on my baby in-between kicking my tail and to my other diva-sister, thank you for giving up your bench so that my son could visibly see me and stop crying!!! You are all too amazing! Of course Dre, thanks for even allowing me to bring him and for also checking on him. This is tough enough just getting myself to class, so I want to thank you all soooooo much for looking out for me! I was truly touched!

Okay … so I had the most fabulous session with Diva Mattie!!! OMG … not only did she give me the courage to go on this journey, but she has –without hesitation – been helping me out with all kinds of competition information AND what I have come to find out is also critical “posing”. And can I just tell you … I’ve got the baddest trainer on the planet in DRE and the baddest fitness-figure-pro – yes “PRO”, the card is just a formality – posing coach on the planet! Mattie you are the BOMB and I thank you for all of your help thus far!!! I’m bringing “it” home to D3 November 13th and you November 20th!! By the time I walked out of my posing session with Mattie, I felt more sexier than ever and more confident that I am on a path of success! No I’m going to claim it … I WILL PLACE IN THE TOP 3, MY FIRST TIME!!! I have a long way to go, but I KNOW as long as I do what I have been instructed to do, I am GOING TO PLACE IN THE TOP 3, MY FIRST TIME!!!

Pray for me you all … I am in a GOOD PLACE!!! Mentally, physically, spiritually, financially!!! Keep me in your prayers! Thank you God!

Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Today was one busy day. Got my PT session out of the way, however, I had a dinner tonight so I had to do my cardio after I returned from that. I thought of every reason on that 45 minute drive of why I was only going to do 20 minutes and make up the rest later in the week, OR why I could just skip it altogether … hell I’ve been working my butt off one day without cardio won’t hurt … Right?

BUT I said to myself … “SELF … the other competitors are competing to win … the ones that think like this … they just want to be on stage … which one are you?” That’s all it took, I got my but home around 10:30, hopped on that treadmill and pushed myself to 45 minutes, or 3.5 miles, the rest – a mere 0.5 miles more to reach daily goal - to be made up the next day. Oh … and completed my daily round of ABS! Hell, I had to go to sleep (smile)!!! The point of the matter is I could’ve cheated myself, but I made a decision to WIN and I felt like I honored that.

Kudos and D3 Challenge To All!!

First of all, I want to say a BIG WOW to both Roz and Stephanie for really taking my challenge to the next level. I am so impressed with your progress! You 2 have transformed your bodies and I am so proud of you. Secondly, you must continue to blog on a weekly/daily basis so others can see that this can be done! You can get SERIOUS about your fitness and health and become the person you have always wanted to be!

Stephanie, your figure comp is coming up and I know I am pushing you hard, but man, are you doing it girl! I can't wait to see the finished product!

To others reading this BLOG, here is a challenge to you: Do you LOVE your body as is or would you like to improve your look, strength, endurance, and overall health but you are just not sure where to start or maybe (keeping it real) you are just too lazy to start? Well, whichever is the case, D3 can help! We are offering classes on line under D3 On Demand very soon if you are not in the Chicagoland area but if you are, call me so I can get you started!

Remember, after 21 days a habit is made and you too can become a consistent participant of exercise(even if you never have). So, what are you waiting for? Call 312-276-5138 ext 10 or just email me your story to dre@dresdieseldome.com. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Get Fit! Stay Fit!
Dre

ROZZIE G WEEK 34

9/12/10 I just read Steph's blogs from the last few months...I am so proud of you girl! When I saw you last, you looked great! You are an example of what commitment will do.

I have not made a blog entry in a very long time. Guess I got tired of talking about this knee pain. It has truly become a day to day thing. It has certainly had an impact on my workouts. And my quality of life. I still go to the pool but sometimes my leg is too sore for that. I am taking a few D2 classes depending on what I can still do. And can I say that becuz my left knee is so jacked that now my right ankle is swelling and hurting in protest of having to carry most of the weight now. I mean damn! This is why I have not blogged. My body doesn't seem to be on board all the time to what I am trying to do.

I was taking Physical Therapy. It helped with the stiffness but it did not yield the results I was hoping for. I actually did not go back this week. I did however make an appoint for a second opinion.

I typically am not a person who rushes to surgery,but that may be my last option. I cant even sleep soundly at night.

I would be lying if I said I didn't think of giving up or that I have not cried over my situation. But then I remember the alternative....I am still above ground.

I need a bit of a jump start again. After reading Steph's accomplishments, maybe I could be more create in finding thing i could do as alternatives. i am open for suggestions.( a sistah needs some encouragement)

I turn 50 years old 9/24. Lets see what happens between now and then...peace

PRU ~ WEEK 31

WEEK 31
Wednesday, August 24, 2010
I’ve been in bed all day. Not feeling well today. Think I have the flu … pumping my body with Theraflu. I knew something was off because I was having a hard time Monday at boot camp. Back at it tomorrow, no matter what.

Monday, August 22, 2010
What can I say … We had a blast on Saturday at my husband’s and my cocktail party!!! Dre allowed me to have a few drinks - at least that what Paulette said ... you did say okay right DRE (smile) … so I partook of a “few” Mai Tai’s and a “few” Martini’s (smile)! I mean a FEW … little cups!

Brought in forty-five … YES … forty-five with a fierceness!!! I weighed myself this morning and according to my scale I dropped 25 lbs – my goal since February! My friend and hairstylist brought me back with a FUNKY cut AND my dress was a size SMALL – with some room to boot!!! My hubby is loving his new woman!!! I am LOVING myself! Love you Dre … Love you Roz! To my husband MICKEY … ‘‘YOU ARE THE GREATEST MAN ON THE PLANET! I THANK GOD FOR YOU!!! THANKS FOR BEING SO SUPPORTIVE!’’

Bootcamp was a little rough for me today. I am going to blame it on the alcohol I had this past weekend. I just felt sluggish. Just makes me not want it. I didn’t really drink that much – not like the old Steph. Oh well! I’m over it. Back on my mission … Maybe I’ll celebrate with a glass of champagne in November. Maybe.

By the way ... beginning September 1st were only a little more than 2 months - about 75 days away - from the D3 Challenge Show!!! Let's bring it in strong! Let's support each other and please blog with us. Roz & I need the support!

PRU ~ Week 30

WEEK 30
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Wow! Did I just type Week 30??? Wow! I cannot believe it has been 30 weeks since I started this challenge. Crazy! Looking back … I can’t say I had reservations, but I can say that my mind wasn’t totally “made up” either. I am just glad I stuck with it.

I just felt compelled to blog tonight – I have a million other things on my plate, but I wanted to share this tonight.

Well this week is “hectic” for me. My 4 year old son has events, my husband has events and then there’s me. Today/tonight/this week was one of those where I had to get it done IN ANY WAY that I could. So I knocked out 30 minutes on the treadmill this morning. The funny thing is, I always say I’m only going to do 20 minutes, or “x” miles, or “x” calories when I do an a.m. workout, but I usually end up pushing myself – today was no exception.

After a long day at work ... my 4yr old son’s class had a picnic this evening. After arriving home around 7:45, I completed an hour of weight training and then did another mile on the treadmill. I HAD to ensure I met my cardio goal for the day! Don't think I wasn't telling myself ... "just do the weight training and make up the cardio tomorrow" ... Oh yeah ... but, then the other voice kicked in and said "get it done, NOW"! I'm still not sure if that was my voice or Dre's (smile)!

Its now 9:30, I haven’t had dinner, but the sense of accomplishment was worth the sacrifice. It’s been a LONG day, and I still have a million things to do … Oh well … what gets done, gets done! I put in my time today! Back at it tomorrow.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Just too tired tonight after my cardio workout. I feel terrible, but I don’t have the energy for weight training tonight. Will have to make it up throughout the rest of this week.

Monday, August 16, 2010
Great day today! I got in my cardio this morning and headed to bootcamp this evening. Sunny and Jillian worked us out tonight! Thanks ladies … I needed the butt-kicking and was so happy not to be on the damn treadmill … ARGGGGG … so thank you for burning up the calories for me tonight.

Sunday, August 15, 2010
Normally my off day, but this is going to be a long week – no cardio workout this upcoming Saturday - so I had to get my cardio on today.

Pru ~ Weeks 28-29

WEEK 29
Friday, August 13, 2010
Last nights sweatbox class lived up to its name! I had so much sweat pouring out of my body that one would have thought I had literally just gotten out of the shower!!! We worked it out though! I know I lost at least 5lbs on water weight alone.

Remember my “coochie cutters” from way back in Feb/March? Well those reference point pants are BAGGY and SAGGY now! I could not believe how they fit me. This is CRAZY! They didn’t even fit this way when I purchased the suit 10 years ago! My partner at work told me that the suit jacket – which has a tailored fit, no shoulder pads … lol - also looked too big!!

I’m gonna tell you something … most of you that know me well, know that I feel boobs are overrated. For my fellow “full-boobed” sisters that understand where I’m coming from … if you think you have to go under the knife for a breast reduction … Dre’s got a non-surgical – can’t say painless – alternative for you! I swear I have dropped a cup size or more! Understand … this has NEVER happened to me. I am loving my new “taa-taa’s”. Mattie … shout out goes to you … you told me this would happen and I did not believe you. I will not question your authority again (smile)!!!

Well I better get some rest … I took today off, back at it again tomorrow.

Thursday, August 12, 2010
I didn’t quite make my goal of losing 25lbs by my 45th birthday, but I lost 23lbs so I will TAKE IT!!! Either way, it’s a WIN WIN for me!!! Can I just say that I AM LOVING MYSELF right about now! And yes … to my forty-something sisters and brothers … 45 is the NEW 25!

I had the honor of hanging out with my beautiful friend/trainer Dre, her husband and a few other friends and I tell you … I put on a pair of pants that I had before my son was born … which fit perfectly, unless I ate a nut then it show – can I just say they were baggy! I AM LOVING THIS! You just don’t know how ‘dowdy’ I was feeling earlier this year. It feels so good to have set this goal and got after it. I’ve still got a ways to go, but it’s going to happen.

Okay back on the workout tip … I’m happy to say that this is week two of the additional weight training and so far so good. My hubby got me the Bowflex adjustable weights, so I literally have no excuse to skip any training. I’m not sure if these Bowflex weights are worth the price tag … if there is a cheaper brand I would highly recommend. They are kind of bulky … but I will give them 30 days and make a decision from there. Though I haven’t been to D3 for about two weeks now – crazy busy schedule - I remain committed to my workouts. I don’t know about you, but if I miss two days … well … that’s when I look up and 3 weeks will go by … so I just keep it in moving.

Lately a lot of people keep asking me what I've been doing. Here it goes ... First, let me STRESS … I didn’t lose this by taking a pill, only eating lettuce, starving myself to death or working out 24 hours/day. I did it slowly and methodically. I made a conscience effort EVERY 30 days to: CHANGE something in my diet, INCREASE my workout INTENSITY and I COMMITTED to these goals. If you’re in a workout rut, that’s a sign to CHANGE your workout routine.

If you dare to follow these simple steps, I GUARANTEE you that a change in your body, mind, spirit and soul is IMMINENT! Come on! Tell’em ROZ!!!

Life is so GOOD and GOD IS SO GREAT! I know I keep saying that, but truly I haven’t been in this space for a while. I just wanna labor in it! Just want to absorb every single, second of it! And more importantly share it!


WEEK 28
Thursday, August 05, 2010
This has by far been a busy week. The other day I was sooooo tired, had such an attitude my knees are killing me … needless to say I just wasn’t feeling it at all. I pushed myself anyway and managed to get my 600 calorie burn on.

I had to start bringing it this month. So I’m introducing more weight training this month, on top of the cardio. Today, I did the P90X leg routine, but it looks like I’m going to have to go to the gym. Don’t get me wrong, it was challenging, but I don’t think it will be enough to get me where I need to be. We’ll see how I’m walking tomorrow! Now the upper body stuff … right on time.

I’m doing seven straight this week because my birthday is Sunday, so that will be my off day. This is a big birthday for me … the big … FOURTY FIVE!!! OMG!!! I can’t even believe it! The spa is waiting for me and the way I’m working out this week, this will be one of the best spa day’s ever! TTYL!

PRU ~ Week 27

WEEK 26/27
Friday, July 30, 2010

I have been terrible this summer with blogging. It has just been so incredibly busy! But busy in a FANTASTIC way. The past two weeks I have been trying to regain my stamina back that I lost when I had my dehydration episode. Despite not feeling 100% , I managed to stay focused on my goals and kept it moving, but it has been challenging. Now at week 27, I’m beginning to feel like my old self again.

As I mentioned, beginning July 15th I started a more restrictive diet regimen. It takes 30 days to change a habit, but I’m hanging in there. I also increased my cardio … WHOA … now I have to get real with myself on this one … this is proving to be a lot more rough than I anticipated, but oh well … you already heard that story. Next month, 2 days from now, I start really hitting the weights again. I haven’t done any hardcore weight training outside of bootcamp in 5 years, so it will be fun & interesting. I’m looking forward to watching my body change some more!!! Will my muscle memory kick in??? Hmmmm …. I’m having a FANTASTIC summer/year, and I’m going to ride this TRAIN until the WHEELS FALL OFF!

Today is my fourth wedding anniversary to my incredible husband!!! I love you baby ... your support has been phenomenal! I've been working out pretty hard, but I am just tired as all get out today. Absolutely no energy ... so I'm taking today off vs. Sunday. This is it as far as missing my six straight days, but my body is telling me its tired. Dre says "not one drink" can I have ... pray for me. Just one more before the final push??? We'll see what happens!

By the way, I added a whole months worth of blogs below. Though I haven't posted in a minute, I have continued to journal. So take a look, give me some feedback, share your thoughts. Roz, Dana and I need you!!!

PRUI ~ WEEKS: 21-25

WEEK 25
Last Saturday I had a great morning workout. We did a combination of indoor/outdoor work, which was great because it was hot as heck in both locations! Dre always tells us to “HYDRATE”, especially on days like today. I sometimes have a hard time drinking a ton of water, and this day was no different. I drank a “small” bottled water during class. I met friends an hour later for brunch and had 3 MUGS – not CUPS - MUGS of coffee. Oh … and didn’t drink anymore water. Needless to say, a friend had to drive me home, because I got dehydrated and was dizzy and queasy for the rest of the weekend.

It’s Friday and I’m still feeling a little dizzy, but I’m better. So just remember that it is VITAL – especially during this great, hot, summer we’re having in Chicago - that we replenish our bodies with water. And if you’re really feeling off … Gatorade or Pedialyte is even better, because it replenishes our body with key electrolytes that are depleted during a good workout.

On the journey tip …

I’ve struggled a bit this week - trying to up my game for the next chapter of this journey. This goal I have set for myself will not come without great sacrifices. I have had to catch and repeat to myself, “Its only 4 months of your life … the end result will be so worth it”. I have to believe that right now because not only will this be physically and mentally challenging for me, it is also going to put a strain on my family. I hate to be selfish, but I’ve put myself on hold for almost 5 years now, and I deserve to self-indulge for a few months … RIGHT (smile)? I’m just keeping it real …

The funny thing is – I wanna act crazy now – and this is only week two! Crazy!!! My body is telling me that what I used to be able to do in a single workout … not so much now. So I’ve got to figure out how to get done what I need to get done. I will figure it out and get it done. In the meantime, pray for me … its only 4 months … RIGHT?!



WEEK 24
Friday, July 16, 2010
Okay I’m back. I got off track with my blogging – traveling, ripping & running, work … and oh yeah … “WORKING OUT”!!! I am SOOOOOOOOOO excited, on so many levels!!!

I have officially lost 20lbs since February, 24th when I started the D3 challenge! It has not come without having a “laser focus and commitment” to working out and eating cleaner. And to answer your questions … “NO I DIDN’T STARVE MYSELF”. So there (smile)! I have just been making a conscience effort to eat better, proper portion sizes and balanced meals. No designer foods (i.e. Whole Foods grocery shopping) – none of that. Just laid off the junk and substituted with healthier alternatives. There is still room for improvement. One step at-a-time.

To my AWESOME neighbor, trainer, FRIEND … How many ways/times can I thank you?!!! Well I know one … keep feeding you my husbands’ great cooking (smile)! No, but seriously, “THANK YOU … for helping me to get my OLD self back!!! Outside of accomplishing the more obvious goals … successful business, public accommodations, etc., I am a living testament of how YOU have helped changed my life for the better – healthier, happier and fit! Thank you God for sending Dre my way!!! I love you girl!

Okay enough of the Love fest … we … I mean “I” still have a TON of work to do! I’m up for the challenge though! I tell myself every day that I have got to continue to ride this wave of “divine energy & positivity” and exploit it to the fullest. The universe is giving me so much right now and I have to give back. Thank you God!



WEEK 22
Thursday, July 1, 2010
OMG its JULY!!! Time to really step it up! The competition is 4 months away. I’ve got a few days to relax – slightly – then it’s on to the REAL stuff. I realize everything I’ve done up until now was the easy part … now its GAME ON.

Today I was tired as all get out! I guess yesterday’s workout let me know that – yeah sistah you can try to work out like you are still 21, but you’ll pay the next day. IM NOT SCARED (smile) … It took EVERYTHING I had to peel myself off the couch and go to “double-trouble” tonight - I know what I have to do, and I cannot miss another day this week. So I got it together and made it right on over to D3. As always I’m so glad I did! Dre, KICKED OUR TAILS!!! I had so much energy afterwards.

I just want to thank all of my fellow D3 Diva’s for the compliments. I know I’ve lost some weight, but I still feel like I could have done more. So thank you!

To my girl – will not mention her name, but you know who you are. I thank you for the compliments, but just know – we are no different. It is simply a matter of how bad do you want to achieve your fitness goals. No excuses … just commit to it, set “realistic” goals for “yourself” every 30 days and go for it! You got this! The D3 motto is so on point … “fitness for a MADE UP mind”! I got your back!

Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Had to make up for my “triflingness” – is that a word? Well it is now. I have got to get back on track. I’ve worked too hard to start slacking off now. Got my treadmill on early this morning – felt so good!!! Came home tonight and Tae-Bo’d it for an hour. I burned nearly 800 calories today!!! I’m pretty proud of myself. I’m back.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Too exhausted tonight … just can’t muster the energy. Thought I was going to wait until tonight and work out. Yeah right.

Monday, June 28, 2010
This has been a heck-of-a weekend. My baby has been sick all weekend and I am exhausted like a mug. I managed to get a workout in.


WEEK 21
Wow! I got off schedule again that fast. How is it that I workout during vacation and then come home and get trifling? Can anybody relate? I only got in three days this week – so much going on. I realize that I really do need to try and get things out the way first thing in the morning, because it just opens up my day.

I forgot how busy summer can be. My son is getting older and he wants to do things, my hubby and I are trying to maintain these damn jobs – more work, less pay – and have fun at the same time. To do it all is just a juggling act. So … out comes the calendar. Better planning, better outcomes.

Sure felt good to be back at boot camp this week. Missed my diva support system! I fell on my TAIL in Dre’s new “double trouble” class. Just when you think she can’t possibly come up with something new … “here she comes with some ole crazy, tear your tail up stuff!” But hey, I burned some mad calories … so I guess I’ll just soak in some Epsom salt and call it a day.