I’ve tried writing about my Olympia experience in one blog… but it isn’t working, lol.  Over the next few weeks, I’ll share thoughts, feelings and the experience in several blogs for you guys… mixed in with a few other random tidbits.

So what now?

The question everyone keeps asking me…

It’s been about 7 weeks since the O and it’s honestly taken me that long to process the event.  I still don’t think I fully have.  In a nutshell, I blinked and it was over! I felt like a horse at the gate, ready to just give ‘er all I got… and no race.  Not a bad way to feel, just adds fuel to my fire.

I tied with 15 other women for 16th place meaning I was likely not judged or judged quickly.  Am I OK with that?  Of course not!  Who goes into a show saying they don’t want to do well?  No one!  I had high expectations for myself as I always do, nothing wrong with that and I think it’s part of being a competitor.  The Olympia is an entirely new league, one I was not mentally prepared for.  Was there anything I could have done to prepare differently?  Nope, nothing except the experience itself could really do it.  Going through it was the best preparation I could have.

So I didn’t place.  Big woop.  Ya, I was upset at first and had a little hissy fit… God bless my coach, he told me to go eat, nap, chill out and then come see him.  So I did.  I went and had a huge burger, fries, an ice cream sundae and some cupcakes (sorry Shelby!).  It was after all my birthday!  I then passed out for 2 hours, woke up and went to see the boss, taking a bit of a different attitude with me.

In his calm, cool manner, my coach told me I placed right where he thought I would.  Alright, no big deal… but I didn’t understand why? Politics, my physique, whatever.  Considering I worked with my coach (Shelby Starnes) for a mere 5 weeks (that’s another blog in itself), we pulled off a miracle and I am more than happy with what I brought to stage.  That’s the beauty of the sport, continually trying to out do yourself and beat yourself… who cares about the girl next to you, worry about bettering yourself!!!!

Am I happy with how things went?

I am now.  VERY happy.  I am so grateful for all of the good, bad and amazing challenges I faced and overcame that prep.  I learned more than I have EVER learned in my life.  I feel like I left the Olympia stage a totally different competitor.  One with a new appreciation for the sport.  And it’s lit a fire under my ass, to beat that girl that was up there… to be a better me.  I know what I need to do and I will.

I stood on stage with 30 of the best of the best in my sport… and I AM ONE OF THEM!!!!!

Huh????  That thought still blows my mind!  I remember standing onstage, looking around at these incredible women… athletes, mother’s, friends, inspirations, role models.  I’ve looked up to so many of them for countless years… and here I was, right in the thick of it.  WOW!  Truly an honor and privilege.  I was able to experience something 1000’s strive for year after year, show after show and here I was.  I personally feel it’s safe to say, I held my own.

I have so many people I want to thank.

The support was incredible, but I will keep it to a few and spare you all the boredom….

My Husband

Without you in my corner, not a minute of this would have been possible.  For putting my crazy dreams and needs first, being my logical rock, my partner, keeping my feet on the ground and for always telling me “1 more for first babe, you got this.”  You always believed in me when I didn’t. Thank you and I love you.

Shelby Starnes

I don’t even know what to say, which is kinda rare, haha! Words can’t describe the amount of respect I have for you as a coach, athlete and friend.  I am truly grateful for your help and belief in me during the 11th hour.  You taught me to love the journey, a first for me… and appreciate what I am capable of.  I look forward to a long working relationship with you and seeing what we can achieve!

Helen Bouchard and Daphne Madigan

Without you, I wouldn’t have chased that dream I had put away 7 years ago.  Thank you for everything, I will always be grateful for your role in all of this.

Jolene Lenko

My BFF, partner in crime, sounding board, stylist, shopper, therapist, etc, etc.  My rock.  A part of my heart.  My sister.  From early morning cardio, a million pictures and endless rambles, I love you forever.

Everyone at Axxis Gym

I thank you for your kind words of encouragement… I felt the support from everyone and it truly helped.  And for letting me hog the equipment, I thank you as well 🙂

My clients, friends and family

Your contributions in various forms were so appreciated.  I am very blessed to have the support and love around me that I do.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

It’s not often that people will understand the journey you’re on… and that’s OK.  It’s my journey to take and one I am so thankful for.  Looking back 7 years ago, I am amazed at where I am now.  Can’t wait to see what another year brings!

Peace out and stay healthy!
J.