Like usual, it’s fairly busy around my house and things are moving steadily. I made it through the first part of my job interview, and was invited back

Brownies Amy baked. They ROCK!!!

for the second half, but I asked to push the date back. There are a few things I need to do before pursuing any job, and I think it’s better to get those done first. I felt the pressure to apply for jobs, but in reality applying was premature. That clichéd phrase of “putting the cart before the horse” was created by moments like these.

April workouts were behind schedule

April was really a tough month for me in terms of training. The kids were sick for the first two weeks of April, and for the last week of April. With that said I think I worked out a total of five times; perhaps seven, but they were crappy workouts. Today, I spent an hour training with Amy though. It was nice to train with a partner, which I haven’t done since I left the Chi. She also brought me a batch of brownies and some bath bubblies for mother’s day! Thanks Amy!!!

Although I have struggled with training for the last few weeks I realize it’s nearly go time. I’ve teetered back and forth with the idea of competing, but decided yesterday that it’s definitely happening. June 17, 2012 is the first day of contest prep. That’s Sunday. I’m not sure why I start each contest prep on Sunday, but I do.

My snazzy new Mile High Karate gi. Feeling very fashionable.

I’m actually putting together my meal plans now [yes, it's early], but I like to have it done before I begin prep. I’m not sure how this prep is going to play out because I’m also doing karate. I’m curious how much the karate is will help lean out my lower body and abs. At the moment, the kids and I are doing classes three days a week, when they are not sick, and I’m certain it’s one reason why I’m leaner this off-season. What can I say; I hate cardio, but I love karate.  Mile High Karate Sterling is the best! Woohoo!!!

This season’s goal

My biggest goal is to not sabotage myself  this season. For me, the unhealthy side of bodybuilding really plays with my mind. The leaner I get, the unhealthier I know I am, and that bothers me. I reduce cardio and incorporate MORE cheat meals versus re-feeds when I begin to feel this way; hence the reason I’m not lean enough. Sadly, that’s on an 1800 calorie diet, which is high for most figure athletes, and I still feel gaunt and gross.  This year, I plan to stay the course and see where it takes me. Don’t worry; starvation is not part of that plan.

Health and Fitness Books blog reminder

I nearly forgot. Several weeks ago I debated on doing a book blog on my website. I was hesitant because reviews are so subjective. One person can find the information mundane, while someone else can find it intriguing and valuable. Instead of being affected by the negativity, which I’ve received, I decided to say “f’k'em if they can’t take a joke.” Another words, I’m going to do the book reviews  in the best way I can, and hope it helps someone in the process. Here is the link.