The Red Bikini Lady....

Body for Life Champion and Liftime Achievement Award Winner, Michelle Lee. "page-a-day" memoir of the steps I took during a journey to my first Body Building and Figure Competition and beyond. (c)2008 all rights reserved by blog author

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Location: Minnesota, United States

I'm at an age when many women believe their best years are behind them. I hope to convince my "Sisters" that many more of those "best years" are waitng to be lived! I'm living proof it is never to late to live them. Not to long ago I weighed nearly 200 pounds and was being treated for a long list of obesity related medical problems. Thankfully there came a point in my life when I decided to keep my self promises. When I did...my life opened to a world of possibilities.

Friday, February 18, 2005

Day 5

Day five.
Now that I realize...Thursday's wild freeday was caused by the "Moon's pull" on my body and psyche--all is well. Cycles can have such an impact on us humans. It just takes a wild freeday to jog the memory!

You'd think after 50 some years I'd have this down pat.
Back on track.

I had a wonderful time last night with the Duluth BFL'ers. Lots and
lots of useful ideas to break out of the current plateau. Some times it takes a
good evening with friends to put things into perspective. I feel as if I
have been re-charged.

Again, proof that support is essential when we are on a life
changing journey.


It is one of the best lessons learned. Support is just as important as nutrition and workouts. It can lift you up to new highs.
Thanks my friends!

Thursday, February 17, 2005

Free Day

I took a free day yesterday. It was a doozy...and today I am feeling woozy.
Anyone who claims free day is free--must be limiting their definition of the word free. Unfortunately that is something I am still learning.

On free day I have only one speed. High.
I have very little control and eat much to much white foods, filled
with fat and sugar. ie:cookies and candy. As a result the day after is
often spent feeling terrible. Much like a hang over. Brain fog,
sluggishness...an overall feeling of yuk. The remedy to this food hang
over is often a light day of eating. Yet--I know that longterm damage
is being done.


How many of these free days must I take before I learn my lesson?

One of my goals on this challenge is to get a handle on freeday. To define it for myself so that it doesn't come with so many negative consequences to my wellbeing.

I would love to get feedback on how others "control" their freedays. I know that the ultimate answer must come from within--but role models are always appreciated.
Thanks and have a great BFL day.

Wednesday, February 16, 2005

Before and After

Blogging Buddy and BFL dynamo Laurie suggested I put up my very first before picture on this blog...saying it would have impact for those thinking about positive lifestyle changes. It might help me to see this every day as well.
It shows me where I have been...a place I never want to return.
BFL for Life!

Tuesday, February 15, 2005

Resting on One's Laurels.

Day 2 of my challenge.
Clean eating--cardio done. Reviewed my goals.
This is so much more fun than resting on one's laurels!

...Laurels are the crowns of the victorious...not the pillows for
the complacent!

Monday, February 14, 2005

It's Monday--it's day one of new challenge.

Woke up this morning to a beautiful sight; a new blanket of snow here in Northern Minnesota. We received about five inches of the white stuff and the tree branches are heavy with it. I really enjoy these late winter storms. The sun is becoming stronger and the temperatures are beginning to moderate. Its best to enjoy the view...before it melts.

It won't be long before spring arrives. It is one of my favorite times of the year. A time for new beginnings.
But I'm not waiting to begin my new challenge. It starts today! 12 weeks to lose about five pounds of fat and gain five pounds of muscle. To accomplish both I have to meet my goals.

Goals:
-Hit every workout with a positive attitude.
-Plan and prepare nutritious balanced meals each day.
-Consistant supplimentation.
-Limit free day to one day a week.
-Drink adequate water.
-Meditate and Deep breathe daily.
-Help others who are struggling to regain their health.
-Get a new "after" photo taken.
These are not that difficult. They are not earth shaking concepts. I have been taking these actions for nearly two years. What is hard is being consistant in my efforts. Today, that means getting to the gym for my upper body work out. Packing my meals. And reducing negative energy. And making every minute count.
Here's to day one. A fresh start. Success.