Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Is your body a temple?

I initially wrote this last week after pondering the conversation for a couple of weeks.  I then pulled an Abe Lincoln and sat on this to make sure it was something I wanted to post.  Well…enough sitting on it.  I think it is important to share, because if it changes just one person’s life then I did the right thing. 
Recently I had a conversation with someone that was concerned about me.  They were concerned specifically that I was treating my body like a temple.  This conversation took place two weeks ago and has stuck with me this long that I decided to expound upon it. 
While I agree your body should not be worshipped like a temple, as the only thing that should be worshipped is God.  But when you really look at it, why would you not treat your body as if it were a temple?  I want everyone to ponder these thoughts. 
·         God created you.  ALL of you.  Your BODY, mind and soul.  So why trash any of those things? 
·         You only have one BODY.  You choose how you treat it.
·         Finding balance in life is one of the most difficult things we all face.  Balance involves tying your BODY, mind and soul together to be the most complete person you can be.  It is tough to tie something together if you cannot bend over to tie your shoes or climb a flight of stairs without running out of breath.
·         Everyone of you deserves to be happy.  One of the best ways to achieve that is to improve your self-esteem.  One of the best ways to improving that is improving your health.  If you smoke, quit.  If you drink too much, slow down.  If you swear too much, knock it off, there are kids around.
·         Lastly, the most important reason that you should treat your body as if were a temple is best seen through my story. 
People tend to think the main reason why I’ve changed my lifestyle is because I found a challenge in Natural Bodybuilding.  In part, this is true.  But what very few, if anyone know is that the true reasons I have changed is because of two women who permanently came into my life this past year; my gorgeous wife and my innocent niece. 
I remember fighting back the tears as the Mrs. walked down the aisle, knowing that I had the opportunity to grow as a man and as a husband.  I realized that I need to be there for her just as she is there for me, forever!  You cannot be there for someone forever if you clog your arteries with fast food day in and day out.

I also remember seeing my niece for the first time minutes after she was born and how awakening it was to have a love for a being that you don’t even know.  For those of you with nieces and nephews, you understand.  I realized then that I want to be around to watch her grow and impact her life, forever!  How can you impact a child's life if you can't lead by example and practice what you preach? 
So am I treating my body as if it is important, similar to a temple?  You’re damn right I am. I have a great wife that depends on me mentally, physically and emotionally.   I also have a niece that I look forward to imparting knowledge and watch grow up. 

Monday, May 16, 2011

Transforming a lifestyle

It has been a while since I've posted.  Today was the official start of regaining some balance for a couple of months or so...but before I do so I have some loose ends to shore up. 

One of the key pieces to me transforming my body and getting up on stage was Omar Henderson of Body By "O".  He has been friends with the Mrs. for quite some time and was a key piece to helping her become the most beautiful bride I know (and yes I'm very biased).  I have already mentioned the story in a previous entry on how the journey to the stage developed.  So go read my other entries!

Omar took a leap of faith and opened up his own studio recently.  Body by "O" is strongly endorsed by the Mrs. and myself.  We highly recommend reaching out for him...send us a message and we'll tell you how to get ahold of him. 

What you will get:
  • Straight forward, honest analysis.
  • Motivation.
  • Community like support structure.
  • Pointed in the right direction.
  • Satisfaction of knowing you are transforming your lifestyle.
  • An introduction to the 3D mindset.
What you will NOT get:
  • A weight loss gimmick.
  • False hopes and dreams.
  • He will not do your ab workout or cardio for you.
  • A recipe book...(unless you pay for it, then I'm sure he'd make one for you).
  • If you're a woman (most of his clients are women) you don't have to worry about the sweaty ugly dudes hitting on you...
With that being said...pictures often speak louder than words...actions speak louder than words...I've done my action...now here are the pictures...22 and 24 weeks later.



Friday, May 6, 2011

3D and we aren't talking glasses

It has been a while...I promise once the off-season starts we'll kick this thing up a notch and churn out recipes, interviews and workout clips. 

Tonight's topic:

What the hell does 3D mean?

3D didn't originally start as 3D...it all started with a text message from Omar in which I eventually morphed it into the simplistic 3D format.  However, it is far from simple...adhering to a 3D mindset will challenge you mentally and physically.  You will laugh, you will cry, and at times you may want to quit.  But the best part about the 3D experience is that at the end of the day you are better because of it.  

2 questions for everyone:

1.  What do you think 3D stands for?

2.  Are you ready for the 3D experience?  If so, speak up...you'll get pointed in the right direction.  

On another note:  Good luck to "O" at the Atlantic Super Show tomorrow which is an IFPA pro card qualifier and good luck to "K" in her pro figure debut at the IFPA Pro Bowl!   

Sunday, May 1, 2011

I'm hooked!

Well the first contest is in the books...and as predicted, I enjoyed it.  I enjoyed it so much so that I'm doing it again on May 21st.  The Mrs. was a great ace in the hole and does a helluva job putting a tan on (secretly I think she enjoyed smacking me, and taking out pent up aggravation).  I even got to see a side of the Mrs. that I do not see often, her competitive side.  Her adrenaline was just as high as mine.  As advertised, the leader of the band Omar prepped me well and had me confident and dialed in.  My friends and family were there cheering loud and proud, for that I'm grateful.  Thank you as well to Dave and Monique for putting on a great show. 

In the end I placed 2nd in the Novice short class and 3rd in the Open short class.  I'd be lying if I didn't say I was not slightly disappointed.  I'm a competitor and achieving my goals is what drives me.  I came up slightly short (no pun intended).  But I walked away with some great feedback and feeling good after validating how close I was to winning the Novice class.  While I'm excited about May 21st, I'm even more excited about hitting the weaknesses and giving my body time to tighten up this summer.  September 10th is already penciled in!