Back in the saddle....

So I took 2 months off after the competition, went to California and then Florida, spent some amazing time with Mike and my mom, and am currently enjoying the remainder of my summer vacation with the girls. Life is good.

Today, July 7, 2011, I begin my new meal plan and my new journey. I intend to compete again next Summer and therefore will spend the next 9 months building up my muscle, staying lean, and eating well! I will keep track of my journey here, along with other ramblings and glimpses into my world.

Two days ago a young woman named Casey Anthony was found not guilty of killing her 2 year old daughter Caylee. While this doesn't pertain to me personally, as a mother, teacher, and member of the community as a whole it sickens me. But then I pause to think and realize that regardless of what a jury may determine, not convicted does not equal innocence and whomever is guilty of this horrible crime will undoubtedly suffer. No person can commit such a crime without being haunted for the rest of whatever their life may be. And it strikes me that this situation is like so many others in our daily lives: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Those are the things I desire in my life; serenity, courage, and wisdom.   

On a brighter note, I was recently chosen to be a member of the Big Ten Fan Council. As an avid, passionate, die hard, some may say crazy, college football fan this is so EXCITING for me.  I will be attending the Kickoff Luncheon on July 29th in Chicago where I will meet all of the media people from the Big Ten Network, and all of the Head Coaches from the conference and a select group of players. How did I stumble upon this opportunity? I saw a posting from the Big Ten Network saying they were accepting applications. I thought,  "why not???" But then I heard that voice in my head saying...why? what will you say? you don't know enough about football. you will feel uncomfortable. you will be a nervous wreck. don't be silly. AH-HA moment....nothing ventured, nothing gained. I filled out the application and submitted it. I had NOTHING to lose. And then I was chosen. :) Lesson here: Stop living in your comfort zone, challenge yourself to step outside of it. You are capable of so much more than you give yourself credit for!

Feels good to be back.....