She BELIEVED she could...So she DID!!!!

Hello Everyone

2012 NPC MN State Championships, Bikini B WINNER!!!!!!!!

I wanted to finally update you with the amazing experience I had....not just over the weekend at the 2012 MN State Championships...but the journey I was on the past 5 weeks to make it to this point.

"Half of doing is BELIEVING that you CAN"

On April 28th, 2012 I truly disappointing myself in my placing at the Fox Cities Showdown. I took 5th place out of 13....and I knew that something had to be done. I could not end the season on that note. I found an amazing contest prep coach, Laura Gutilla, and she gave me the tools I needed in order to succeed. That might sound easy....get a new diet...try some new workouts..and BOOM! Actually, that is not the case at all. My diet was extremely restricted and my level of intensity in the gym was through the roof. I never slept so little, ate so much fish, and ran so many stairs in my entire life. It was worth every single minute though. My coach stayed with me through the entire prep, and she did not let me fail. She is amazing...and I am so thankful I had her at my side to work towards my dream.

A few weeks after the Fox Cities, I graduated from college, and the UWSP Strength Center closed....and it was going to be closed all the way up 'til the Monday of Peak Week. That is a LONG time to be creative and not have a consistent place to workout.  Did I let that stop me? Of course not. I kind of felt like Rocky during this time:)...running around campus, finding every stair I could tackle, every platform I could jump, every bench I could do dips on...I did not give up.

It did not matter how much sleep I got...or did not get....I was up at 4:30am....and I was running. At night I would run some more. I would run 2 miles to the cardio center on campus, lift with the limited resources they had available, hit the Step Mill for an hour, and then run home. I would use the river as my motivation. I knew that if I made it to the end of the run, I could sit by the river for 10 minutes and watch the sun go down (or up if it was in the morning), watch the ducks, and enjoy the world around me without a worry. This little bit of heaven all ended for me one night though. I got done running and I was sitting on the bench staring off in my own little world dreaming about the show, when a man approached me. I turned around and was startled because I thought I was alone. He told me he had been watching me. Every single day...and he would wait. He would wait for me to run by and he knew exactly when I was coming. He told me he knew where I lived. My heart was pounding and I looked around. The sun was going down, and no one was in sight. I stood up, and I knew I needed to get away. He grabbed ahold of me and said, "Where do you think YOUR going?" I was in terror. I tried to pull away but he grabbed on tighter. I stood still for a minute and then quickly was able to elbow him really hard in the side and then I ran faster than I ever did before...and I did not look back. I ran into my house, locked the door, and went into my room. I did not feel safe because this man said he knew where I lived. I called the police and reported it, and honestly after that, not one ounce of me felt like anything was going to be done to help the situation which is very disappointing. Later that night, I heard someone try to break into the house. I prayed and prayed that I would be ok...luckily I basically lived in a closet which would be less noticeable to find. I didn't sleep at all that night, and every time I closed my eyes I could see that man's piercing eyes.

In the morning I went to school extremely early in the morning and I waited for Mrs. S. I told her everything that happened. She handed me the keys to her car and told me to move everything out...and I was to come live with her and her husband. (I thank God every day for putting this amazing woman in my life. She always saves me). The entire time I was moving out, my heart was pounding. I felt like I was being watched and at any moment he could appear again.

When I was done moving out, I came back to school and I was greeted by my loving, second graders. One of them had flowers on my desk as an end of the year present and another made me gluten free brownies for after the competition. In an instant, I felt at ease and felt safe. My students smiles and warm hearts can make everything all better without even saying a word.

To add to the emotional roller coaster from the week, I also had to say goodbye to my students. They have all touched my heart, and I will not forget any of them.

On Thursday, Mrs. S let me hit the road so that I could be stress free and make it to MN in one piece. I was really worried about the drive. I have never done that drive before alone and I knew it was not going to be fun doing it carb depleted and dehydrated as well. I told myself though....."Be where you are...otherwise you will miss you life" In other words...enjoy the moment. Enjoy the journey taken to reach the finish line. It is all part of what you accomplished and over came to get to the goal. These are the moments to remember!

Mrs. S let me use her vehicle and her GPS so I would feel at ease. It was only suppose to take 3.5 hours...but with construction, accidents, detours, and rush hour traffic, it took me a whopping 6 hours to make it there.  I was exhausted when I got to MN, but I was so extremely excited to see my friend Lori!!!! She was so kind to let me stay with her wonderful family for the weekend. I am so thankful we got that time together. She is so supportive, and it means a lot. She took good care of me while I was at her house and made sure I was all set for the big day. She did an amazing job on my hair and make up for the show!!!!!! Lori- you are truly an amazing friend, and I am so blessed to have you in my life!!!!!

Lori and Baby Zach....my two biggest fans :) Love you both!!

Lori did a practice run on my hair and make up on Friday to make sure everything was perfect. When she was done, I tried on my suit....and everything was coming to life:)

I was so proud after seeing this picture. I cannot believe where I have come not only in two years...but just in the time frame between shows.

I was proud I mastered this pose...I saw a lot of girls doing it at my last show....and I really wanted to nail it this time!

I was all set....and felt great about everything!!! It was time to go visit Max and Mary for my 2 Toned Spray tan and go to venue to register for the weekend :) It was so nice to see everyone!! I saw a lot of familiar faces and made some new great friends right away too :)

I am SO happy with the way my tan turned out...5 shows...5 tans.....HANDSDOWN...2 Toned did the BEST tan I ever had!!!!!! :) THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!

My heart was pounding Friday night with excitement. I wasn't nervous...just excited it was finally here. I did the work....I put in the time...it was my time to shine :)

Lori was a sweetheart and dropped me off at the venue in the morning so I did not have to stress out with the city driving/parking etc. I headed to the pump up room for the athlete meeting. It was so nice to see everyone!!

Mashell and I :) It was so nice to see you girl!!! I am SO SO SO proud of you!

I was ready to rock after the meeting:)

"Hey Coach.....what can I eat next?" :)

Whenever I go to a show, one of the first things I do is I look for someone who is a first time competitor, and I help them out. I do this every show because when I did my first show, Sara Lynn did that for me. She held my had and walked me through everything...hair/makeup/posing/suit gluing etc. My friend Lori did that for me too at Gopher. I remember looking in the mirror and struggling with my hair and she took me and told me to sit down and she did wonders in a matter of minutes :) I found three different girl that were looking stressed out and I sat them down and helped them with putting on their eye lashes or makeup, fixing their hair, or gluing their suits down. We all make it to this point, no sense in watching someone else struggle or stress out when they can be helped. I will always do this, every show I go to, because I know what a difference it made for me my first time.

Coach Laura was amazing and stayed in contact with me all day long. Even though she lives in Colorado, and was in school all day, she helped me 110% and kept me on point. I would send her pictures every two hours and she would give me instructions on what I should eat next etc. She is amazing, and helped me so much. I would not have had the physique I did that day if it was not for her help! :) Thanks girl!!!!!!!!

Moments before bikini went on stage I got a raging "charlie horse" all the way down my right quad down to my toes. The pain was indescribable. I never cut water this hard before, and I knew my body was not happy. One of the workers back stage saw I was in pain and it was almost my turn to hit the stage. He tried helping me apply pressure to the areas that were cramping. I stood up straight and told myself, "suck it up, you made it this far, and nothing will stop you!" So I went out on stage...did my individual posing routine and the entire pre judging with this unbearable cramping in the lower half of my body...and I did it all with a smile on my face. Even with the pain...I smiled past it and I showed off what I had been working so hard for. As soon as we exited the stage I ripped my 5 inch heels off and tried making myself feel better.

Other than than...Pre-Judging was a lot of fun. I felt really proud while I was on stage, and I was excited when I was moved to the middle right away. I could feel my passion and excitement just beaming off of me. I worked so hard the past 5 weeks on making a new "posing routine" and added new poses/transitions into it. I was really happy with the way it flowed, and I received some great feedback on my presentation. I had a competitive class of 10 beautiful women, and it was an honor being on the same stage.  After pre-judging, I had a pretty good idea that I made top three with the moving around the judges did, and talking to a few knowledgeable friends in the audience.

THANK YOU STRENGTH MEDIA!!!!

Between the shows, I stayed at the venue and took it easy. I made some phone calls, touched up my hair and makeup between the shows, and ate my meals.

Killing time between shows... :)

 Even though pre-judging was over, Laura and I decided to keep it strict so I would stay on point for the night show. I am so glad that I followed her guidelines. A lot of competitors will eat freely after the morning show, but I suffered through some more cold tilapia out of a baggie and some asparagus :) I made it this far....what's a few more hours?

Turns out I have a long lost twin :) Nice meeting you, Blair!!! Keep it UP!

I went to the athlete meeting and it was nice to see everyone after the break. The anticipation and excitement for the night show was amazing. I could not wait to get back out on that stage! Every show I have ever competed in, bikini usually goes on stage in the beginning and by intermission, we are done with everything. This show was set up a little different so I had to be patient and wait a little longer. I am glad it worked out this way though because I had more time back stage to hang out with my friends. This time is always cherished because we all live in different areas and usually only see each other at these events.

Mizz ThunderGunz!

I had a lot of fun, and made some great friends. You know me...always wanting to be a body builder....so I wanted to find someone to get some pictures with. I turned around and I saw a guy...and he was eating peanut butter. My eyes got huge....I looked at the jar of creamy JIF, (I haven't had peanutbutter...let alone fats at all in WEEKS) then I looked at Alec, and it was probably like a child looking at a giant piece of cake. He offered me some but I knew I was under strict orders and had to wait :) I didn't get to eat pb...but I got some awesome pictures with him!!! Thanks dude ;)  Always like to let the little bikini beastmode in me come out!

Moments after the pose down, I started cramping up. Again. Oh great...right before I am suppose to go on stage. I talked to Laura and told her I could barely stand up. She told me to find some salt...fast! I asked everyone...and of course...the day of a show...most athletes aren't thinking about eating salt. Luckily, my girl Mashell had white cheddar rice cakes packed. So there I am....licking the salt off of rice cakes. It was kind of funny, but all together pretty painful haha. What an experience.

It was now time....dun dun dunnnnn......Bikini B was going to line up and head out onto the stage. This is the moment I have been waiting for...and it was finally here. As we were lining up, we were told we only get to do two poses. "Oh Crap...two poses....::as my mind is racing because I have like 5 poses that transition together into my routine::....what will I do? Two poses? How do I make two poses flow....and which two do I choose?" I slapped myself (not really haha but figuratively) and pulled it together. I went out there and I hit my front pose and turned around for my crossed-legged booty pose and turned around at the judges and then went back to a front pose before ending my routine. I felt really good about the way it went. We were all filed on the line and just did one quick front/back comparison....and then we filed off.

As soon as we got behind the curtain, we were told if we made top 5. When number 67 got called...I felt proud. Yes. Top 5....that is great! 10 beautiful girls, and I am going to be in the top. Always a good feeling. We were told to stick around so we did not miss awards. Here I was thinking I had to wait about 10 minutes and then it would all be happening. 10 minutes turned into like an hour and a half and it was finally time :)

Top 5 filed out onto the diagonal line and trophies were called out individually starting with 5th place. By the time they got to 3rd place and my name was not called yet, my heart was racing. It was down to the amazingly beautiful Delanie Jean Neal and myself. (Last year when we competed in MN State we were also the top two placings). I turned toward her and we held hands as we waited anxiously for the results.

They called....runner up...Delanie Jean Neal! My eyes filled with tears of joy and we hugged each other.... this meant.......yes....it FINALLY happened...

..AND THE WINNER OF THE 2012 MINNESOTA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BIKINI B CLASS IS....SARA...JEAN!!!!!!!! I walked over to my trophy and had tears in my eyes. Proudest. Moment. Ever. Pictures were taken of top 5 by our trophies and then we were filed off of the stage.

Max Stockbridge, 2 Toned Tanning, handed me a kleenex as I got off stage. I could barely breathe. I was so incredibly proud. Holy Shit! I just won my class! It FINALLY HAPPENED!!!! 5 NPC SHOWS IN ON YEAR...so much time...dedication...sacrifice....passion..and heart...and I was finally rewarded for it. My friend Kris was like...Sara you have to go out for the overall now! I'll hold your trophy. Not kidding...I kissed my trophy haha and handed it to her like it was my baby.

I was like holy crap I need to pull it together haha I need to go back out there!! And oh my gosh!! The over all! I get to be out there for the overall!!!! It was time to go out on stage, and the Bikini A winner was missing, so after calling her name several times we started without her.

Front Comparison Overall: Bikini C and Bikini B

Back Comparison Overall: Bikini C and B

We did about 4 face the judges/face the curtain comparisons and then after that, she finally came to the stage.

Front Comparisons Overall: Bikini C, B, and A   (A, Red, Winner)

We did only one more comparison of us three competitors, and then we were placed back on the diagonal line. At this point, I was not sure how I was going to do, and I was so just so proud I won my class that I was not going to have any emotional let down if I did not win.

Back Comparisons Overall; Bikini C, B, and A  (A, Red, Winner)

They called out the winner....Bikini A Winner/ Masters Bikini Winner was also the Overall Winner. I had no emotional connection to the placing and just went off stage, went back by my friend Kris who was holding my trophy, and headed over to her red velvet cake for a bite of celebration :)) A few minutes later my phone rang, and it was my brother, Joshua. First words..."Sara...I am SO proud of you!" My eyes filled with tears again, I was shaking so I had to sit down. Hearing those words from my brother meant the world to me. I do not have a dad to hear those words from, so when Josh says them...my world is lit up. I love knowing I have exceeded his expectations...especially in this sport.

Finally :))

After, I ran out with my trophy to find Lori and baby Zach. I kept crying because I was so happy. My dream finally came true. I gave Lori the biggest hug, and we called Laura together. Laura was SOOOOO proud!! :) I started crying again. It felt so good knowing I had my two girls (and baby Zach hehe) right here with me to share the moment. I thanked Coach Laura over and over because I was so happy she worked hard and pushed me so I could get to this moment. I was on a cloud of happiness.


It was late when the show was over, so going out for sushi wasn't an option. But thats ok...Lori had me all set up. She had a cooler with chocolate covered strawberries and pineapple that her wonderful mother made me. We went to the grocery store and picked up some sushi from the deli (good enough for me...I haven't eaten anything other than tilapia and asparagus for weeks haha) and we headed home. We didn't even get home and I felt sick. I was in a lot of pain just from the small amount of food I ate.  It always amazes me what food can do to you. I laid down for a while and Lori and her mom made me gluten free pasta with chicken and gave me a gluten free brownie :) It was a nice way to celebrate.. Ohh and of course I had to enjoy some peanutbutter :)))

I <3 PB!!!!!!

It was an amazing day, and I was so so so proud!!!!!! I fell asleep next to my trophy...dreaming of the next challenge :)

In the morning I woke up....and yep...I made egg whites. I could have eaten anything I wanted to...and I chose...liquid egg whites. haha I wanted to make sure I felt good because I had about a 5 hour drive back to Mrs S....then I had to move out...and then drive almost 2 more hours to make it in time for my nieces birthday party.

:) There she is!!!!

 I buckled my trophy in next to me, and we hit the road by 8am. It was a great opportunity to reflect on the weekend, and make new goals for what is to come next.

PROUD Mrs. S :)

Thank you to everyone who supported me. It means the world to me...I would have never thought that two years ago I would be winning my class in bikini. What a dream come true!!!!!

Stay tuned...this is just the beginning!!!!!!

<3 MN STATE BIKINI B CHAMP, SJ :) XO

All Great Things Must Come To An End....

Hello Everyone!

I hope you are all doing well! Life has been jam packed for me the past few weeks, but I work best under stress with a lot on my plate (good thing or I would be in trouble!). I have been very blessed in this past week to land a job teaching summer school in a really great school district! I will also spend my summer nannying for a really great family as well. I am so thankful for both of these opportunities! It feels great to have graduated from college and have a job lined up that is in relation to my degree.

This week not only marks out the excitement for the final 6 days of prep before the 2012 Minnesota State Championships, but it also includes the countdown of my finals days of student teaching and living here in Point. For all of you that have competed before, you know what an emotional roller coaster peak week is, so to add these two other variables into the equation are going to make it a great obstacle to overcome.

This week Wednesday is the last day of school for my students. I have been in the classroom with the same group of second graders since October. It is going to be very difficult knowing that I will not get to see their smiling faces every day. I wrote each student a note and included pictures from the year from field trips and other fun things that we did. I have a very hard time letting go and saying goodbye from my past since I never had closure to say goodbye to my dad so in doing things like this I am able to let go. I know that each one of my students has memories of me, and they know how special and important they are. I feel more at ease having to say goodbye to them knowing there is closure.

On Thursday, the teachers will spend a full day at school cleaning up their room etc. This is going to be an even more emotional day because I have to say goodbye to now, who is like a best friend to me, Mrs. S. She has been the most amazing mentor I could ever ask for, and outside of giving me the tools I need to become a great teacher, she has supported my dreams and goals, and has had my back along the way. She has done so much for me and I could not thank her enough. I know I can always come back and visit her, but it will be very, very sad knowing that I will not get to spend each day with her.

Mrs. S and me at my college graduation

After school on Thursday, I am probably going to be extremely emotional and before I head off on my adventure to Minnesota, I have to get one final workout in. The Strength Center opens up again this week, so I will be able to workout in there one last time. It will break my heart as I walk out of the doors of the gym, and have to officially say goodbye to my second home, and the wonderful memories, and people that have come into my life because of that place.

Finally, after saying goodbye to my students, Mrs. S, the gym, and my friends...I will have to drive out of Stevens Point knowing that my time here has come to and end. I had an amazing experience living here the past four years of my life and attending UW-SP. This is where I discovered who I am, and what I truly want out of life. This place will always feel like home to me, and I hope someday I can live here again. All great things must come to an end, so that new experiences and opportunities can find you on the next journey.

...and then I'll be off for a 3.5 hour drive to Minnesota and stay with my friend Lori! Let the excitement begin!!!!!!!!!!!!

The final week of prep is always very exciting. So many things run through my head, and the anticipation increases daily knowing that I get to shine on stage again soon. It is so rewarding to see daily changes at this point as well. Right now, hands down, I am the most conditioned I have ever been in my entire life. I feel amazing and I am very proud with the way I am looking. My prep coach, Laura Gutilla, has been nothing but supportive and encouraging along the way. She has helped me climb over walls of obstacles and push me to the top. I feel at ease knowing she will be there every last step of the way to ensure I am on point the day of the show, and I couldn't be more thankful.

This show isn't about beating anyone except myself. I am not happy or proud of the way I looked at the Showdown, so MN state is an opportunity to set new goals, and go after them. I want to be proud of myself and know that I did my very best. I want to look at pictures and think, "Wow! I can't believe I look like that!"  or "I can't believe how far I have come!"

The final week of prep also brings along more emotions that come at the end of the process. The whole time I am getting ready for a show, it is my priority and every single day the decisions I make are impacted on the final outcome of my competition and goals. I always feel on top of the world, and each day I feel like I have a purpose.  Once Saturday, June 9th is over and Sunday morning rolls around, there is an empty hole. This happens to me after every show. Waking up knowing I don't have to do a.m. cardio if I don't want to, knowing I can ultimately eat anything I want, knowing that if I'm holding water here or my abs don't look perfect it wont matter because the show is over. I always feel like my purpose went away, and it feels like something is missing.

This time around,  I am going to head into my "off-season" with a different approach. I am going to stay in control of my actions and make sure that I continue to work hard and maintain the condition my body is in. I know it is not healthy to look stage ready year round..and that isn't my goal. But this time around I will really want to stay within 5 lbs so that when I have my game plan made up to move onto the National Level, prep won't be as long, and instead I can focus my energy into tweaking the areas that my body needs to improve on.

Thank you everyone for your support. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers this week as it is going to be a challenge...I am going to need that extra push.

Stay tuned!!!

<3 SJ xo

Be your own Hero

Hello Everyone!!

I apologize for not writing in a while. I have been very busy with my final weeks of student teaching, graduating from college, job searching, and continuing on my NPC bikini journey. I make every day count, and cherish the last memories I have with my second graders and Mrs. S.

Last weekend I graduated from college and it was truly a day to remember. I remember entering the gymnasium and I did not know if I wanted to cry or throw up in excitement. I could not believe it was finally here. I could not believe I was graduating from college! After the ceremony I was able to talk to friends, and wish them the best. It was nice to be surrounded by so many that shared the journey with me. I made some wonderful friends in the education program, and it was nice to all be together one last time.

Bikini Queen Graduates from College :)

Before we left campus I wanted to go over to the Strength Center one last time. My mom came with me, and I wanted to show her the one place I spent so much time. I made it through the entire ceremony without crying....but when I walked over to the closed doors of the gym, and looked inside at the squat racks and remembered my weekly Friday night gym dates, saw the iron dumbbells lined up against the mirrored- walls, the chalk that I would put on my hands so I could hold more weight,  and the stairs that led up to the cardio equipment where I spent HOURS I mean HOURS busting ass for my competitions.....tears filled my eyes. My mom gave me a hug and she knew this was truly the one place I was going to miss the most from my college experience at UWSP.

Forever, My Second Home <3

I changed so much, and grew into the person I am today in that iron-filled room. I know there are other gyms out there...but there will never be another one that leaves such a big mark on my heart like the UWSP Strength Center.

Alright...moving onto the future. Ever since 2012 Fox Cities Showdown...I have been in a funk. I was pretty down on myself for a good week, and wasn't okay with how things went. I wanted to do better....I want to be the best. After the show I talked to my friend Laura and she knew how I felt, and wanted to help me. I have the work ethic to get me where I want, but I could always use guidance to get me to the next level. She agreed to help me with the diet portion of my contest prep, and we agreed together that I was going to do the 2012 NPC MINNESOTA STATE show on June 9th.

I kept quite about this show...I did not want to make a big deal of it. In the back of my mind I had this negative self image from how I looked at Fox...and I just could not get past it. I did not want to tell everyone I was competing because if I did not feel ready, I was just going to hold off. (Okay seriously....me...commit to something and then back down...yea freakin' right!! "I give up" is NOT in my dictionary). The following Monday after Fox, Mrs. S (who was at the show over the weekend for support) walked in the room and said, "Miss Lindbom....you are doing that Minnesota Show! You need another chance to shine on that stage. I want to help you with this as a graduation present. You work too hard, and I know this is all part of your dream. We are going to make this happen!" I submitted my entry fee right away and continued to follow Laura's diet and continued to bust my butt in the gym.

Mrs. S is truly a blessing

Every morning I would (and continue to do so) wake up at 4:30 and head out the door for morning cardio. I am really proud of this because I use to be  terrible runner with no endurance, and now I can head out the door and run straight for a good 45 minutes without stopping. That in itself is a personal accomplishment for me. As I am running, I do not listen to music...instead I listen to my heart..I listen to the birds singing, and the wind rustling through the trees. I listen to my inner self and reflect on my thoughts and gather the strength I need to get me through another day. Some days are a real challenge to pull myself out of bed, but the minute I start down the sidewalk, I am so thankful I made that choice. It is literally the most amazing way to start my day. If I am lucky...sometimes I will even catch a beautiful sunrise.  While I am running I do not just run on the sidewalk...what fun would that be?! No..I go out of my way and look for stairs, bleachers and other obstacles I can add into my workout. I make every workout count!

 I am lucky to have some wonderful friends that have been working with me in the gym. I usually leave the gym with some or all combinations hands/shins bleeding, limping, sweat or tears running down my face, and a wonderful sense of accomplishment. I have made some really awesome changes in the past 4 weeks, and I cannot wait to showcase that progress on stage. I look forward to my workouts every single day, and even though the Strength Center is closed until June 3rd, I am overcoming that challenge with creative outside workouts and this bad ass old school gym in a warehouse nearby that one of my buddies takes me to a few times a week.

Competing in MN State...I have a different outlook. Usually I go into a show and all I focus on is winning...which I have learned is not really the way to do it. There is only one person I want to beat in this show, and one person is myself. I want to beat myself by putting in the extra hours in the gym, running stairs everyday, and saying goodbye to carbs. I want to beat myself by making progress I did not know I was capable, and being proud of the athlete I see on stage June 9th. We all have a journey....we all have a story...I am proud of where I have come from, and where I am going. This show is all about personal progress and growth on my path to my dream of becoming an IFBB Bikini Pro. That dream will come true when it is suppose to. Instead of rushing, I have realized to just take every experience, every show, as an opportunity to grow in this sport. What kind of athlete would I be if I only ever competed in 1 regional show and won and marched my way up to a National show and was handed my Pro Card? That is not how it works...I want to be rewarded for my sacrifices. I want to be someones hero along the way. I want to inspire others to change their life through my passion of fitness and competing.  Everything happens for a reason..and God has a plan!! (Jeremiah 29:11)

The other day I talked to my iron sister, Diana I feel like I haven't talked to her in FOREVER. She asked me how prep was going and she could tell I was pretty drained. She asked me what suit I was going to wear for MN State (she made my beautiful one of a kind Dirty Bean Blingwear bikini for Fox Cities....over 1000 stones on that suit! I was blown away!) I told her I was going to wear that light blue suit again because it's beautiful and I didn't have the funds to buy another one. Her voice changed right away and she was like "Do you really think I am going to let the Bikini Queen wear the same suit TWICE?! I don't think so, Bean!!!!!!!" She told me she created another masterpiece for me to showcase on stage. I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!! I do not know what it looks like...and I will probably have to wait about another week for her to finish the amazing work she puts into it....but I know it is going to be good!!!! (THANKS GIRL FOR THE UNFORGETTABLE  GRADUATION PRESENT!!!!!!! I WILL MAKE YOU SO PROUD!!!!!!!!!)

Rain or Shine....nothing will stop me ;)

Tonight after my leg workout, I really was not in the mood for cardio. I was sore, and extremely worn out....not to mention it had been raining on and off all day. Do you think that stopped me though? Of course not...a little rain...or a downpour of rain in today's forecast...never hurt anyone. I put on my favorite bodybuilding hoodie, and headed out the door. At first it was hard to get going and I wanted to stop because I could not even see in front of me. (Thinkin' about that new DirtyBean Blingwear bikini creation of amazingness lit a fire under my ass though! haha) After I got about a mile into it, I didn't even realize I was raining. I couldn't tell if sweat was running down my face or if it was rain. My shoes had to have weighed 5lbs each with all of the rain water they had absorbed. The fire inside me continued to burn...I have the heart of a champion and I will never give up.

Well, there are 14 days til showtime....but this time around it is kind of hard to countdown because in these final days of prep, I am also in a count down to be done student teaching. It is going to be a very sad day when I have to say goodbye to those students. They have inspired me and made a difference in my life that I didn't know was possible. I have been in the same classroom of 23 second graders and the amazing Mrs. S since October...and they have really become part of my life. June 6th is my last day with my students....June 8th is my final day at the elementary school, and June 9th is showtime. Always remember...even when a great thing ends...there will be a new beginning with opportunities that you may have never dreamed of happening.

Looking ahead to summer...I have applied now to over 50 school districts for a full time fall job and I still have not heard anything back (but I am told it is still very early). I applied to random jobs for the summer both in this area and back home. I have a second interview with an insurance company this week. It is a full time job M-F with good hours and benefits. It's a start....I may not be teaching children or making a difference in a way that I want to...but I am open minded and it could lead to other paths in my future.

Thank you again for all of your support. Have a wonderful rest of your holiday weekend...and remember MAKE EACH DAY COUNT!!

<3 SJ xo

{UWSP Strength Center}

UWSP Strength Center...My Second Home:

As I was on the treadmill last night, I hit me as I was looking down. I saw my friends below, getting their workout in. I couldn't help but smile. The more I thought about it, tears started to fill my eyes because it is time for a new chapter. Next weekend I will be graduating from UWSP, and saying goodbye  my favorite gym, and the people there I consider to be like a family to me...well...a meathead family:)
It is very emotional for me knowing that I will be moving on in life and continuing on my journey somewhere else...

I do not even know where to begin in thanking the Strength Center for what its have done for me in the past 18 months. The fall of 2010 I continued my fitness journey in your facility. This is where I grew not only as an athlete, but in creating the person I am today with high expectations, dedication, and a passion for health and fitness. This is where I transformed my physique to meet the expectations of the NPC so I could not only compete, but do it with success.

I have increased my strength, endurance, and muscle mass. I have made changes, and accomplished what I once thought of as the impossible. I have never set such remarkable goals for my self, and made those dreams come true. All of this was possible because of the great facility I had the chance to be a part of. When I first entered the gym when I was a Junior in college...it was very intimidating. I was scared of getting in someones way, or being unsure of what to do because it was all new to me. Now I walk around and feel that I belong there, and it is indeed a part of me. The athletes that once made me feel inferior are now some of of my greatest friends. 

I will never forget the sound of the steal crashing down when the football team was in there. The blur of purple and yellow. The way the chalk felt on my hands. The smell of iron. The hours spent looking down and seeing everyone working out while on the treadmill. The voices of friends pushing me and cheering me on to get that extra rep.

This is the place where I made some of the most amazing friends and support I could ask for. For all of you who have pushed me in the gym, and helped me get to the next level, I will be forever thankful for your time, patience, and kindness. If I met you almost two years ago, or even if you came into my life recently, I will never forget any of you. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do to push me another step closer to my dreams...you all know who you are! :)

My last days spent in there will be more than just a workout. It will be a final chance to make lasting memories in the place I call my second home. 

Make each day count!
<3 SJ XO

PHOTO CREDIT: Diana Marie Photography
Location: UWSP SC

2012 Fox Cities Showdown

Hey Everyone!!!!!!!
NOTE: (First part....written morning of the show)


RISE AND SHINE!!!! IT'S SHOWDOWN TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Since I will probably have little sections of time today...I am going to keep adding to this post as the day goes on because so much will happen in a short period of time :)

Right now it is after 5:00 a.m. and I woke up at my normal time just like I assumed. It is too early to start getting ready so I actually just whipped up my student teacher reflection for the week that is due tomorrow and submitted it. I got a decent amount of sleep last night considering the circumstance :) In Arnold's Six Secrets to Success he says you need no more than 6 hours of sleep so you have 18 hours to DO WORK!  :)

I get to eat my first meal here in about 45 minutes and I am going to eat a normal "Meal 1" except no veggies today because 1. I don't want broccoli in my teeth haha and 2. Sometimes I get "veggie belly" and I don't want that on stage either :)

I am feeling good this morning. Heart has been racing more and more as it gets closer...more excited than nervous this time. I did the work, I put in the time prepping meals, working out, and posing, and I know I am ready! I am REALLY excited to show all of my hard work on stage today not only in front of the judges, but for my family, friends, and supporters. I know quite a few that bought tickets, and are coming to the Showdown. I found out my brother is coming to pre-judging and I am SOOOOOO EXCITED!!! It means the WORLD that he is able to come watch. I support him in all of his passions in life, even though he is not body building any more, he is still working out and eating clean. He is doing a super job with school, his new internship, and rugby. I'll always be proud of you, bro :)

Around 7 a.m., Jessica Richie, owner and stylist of Salon Envy is Stevens Point is coming to my house to do my hair. Another stylist, Mataya, is also coming to do Dirty Diana's hair too!!!! I am so excited!!
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Ok so actually yesterday was very busy so after that lil intro I wasn't able to share more about my day..so here I go!! :))

My hair stylist did an amazing job on Diana, and my hair!! It was soooooo beautiful. THANK YOU GIRLS FOR MAKING THE DRIVE ON OUR SPECIAL DAY!! :)))

Frosting rice cakes made by my mommy :)) She even made some to match my suit!! <3

My sister came over with my nieces and they brought me flowers. My niece,who is almost 4, came over in her blue sparkley bikini and we had to get some pics together. It was too darn cute!!! Thank you for stopping over yesterday!!! It meant a LOT to me!!!!

Diana and I in the parking lot with our "1 Year BodyBuilding Anniversary Rings" :))) ....{SHE WENT TO JEREDS!} haha

Diana and I drove to the the venue, all set for pre-judging. We ran into Jerome and Natalie Dihn in the parking lot. She looked absolutely beautiful and it was so nice to see her right away!! We got in side and there were quite a few competitors there already. It was nice to see some familiar faces :) I bought my NPC card, registered, height checked, and I was ready to go! I met my buddy Brandon Chopp, who was competing for the first time. He competes in the middle weight class....nice job, pal!!!! Way to Bring it!!! (BOOM!!!) The athlete meeting started at 11:30, and the auditorium was filled with amazing athletes. I saw a lot of females, and I knew my class was going to be stacked....sure enough...15 girls in Bikini B. That is the most I have ever competed with.

Celebrating our 1 year anniversary: Ashley, Me, Cassandra, Diana

I had some down time...and by down time..I mean like 5 hours..:) So I went over to the spray tanning area, and Yvonne Wright, the Liquid Sun Rayz tanning vendor for the show did some touch ups for me. Out of the four shows I have competed in, she did the most amazing job on my tan.

Drying my touch up coat from Liquid Sun Rayz tan :)) Thanks Ladies!!!!!!

The color was great, and it stayed looking sharp all day. I didn't get ashy or grainy looking...it was just simply fabulous!!! THANKS AGAIN!!!!! <3

Natalie and Me :)) PROUD OF YOU GIRL!!! YOU LOOKED AMAZING!!!!!!! <3

The show was ready to rock and the the auditorium was FILLED to the brim for pre-judging. I had fun backstage with the girls. All of my friends were in the same dressing room area, and I made some more friends as well. We had fun bonding!!!! Nothing like gluing suits on and fixing eye lashes and fake nails for a friend :)) There are a lot of things that go on back stage that are unexplainable :) We have a blast, and the support system is amazing<3

The morning took a lot longer than expected...and bikini did not get to go on stage until after 3:00.
I was about halfway in the line up to do my "individual presentation" on stage. The girl in front of me was also named Sarah Jean (except she had an "h")....she was a sweetheart. It was a lot of fun! Before I walked out there, I told myself  "This is it...this is what you have worked your ass off for...now go get it!!!!!" I went out with a big smile, and let my hard work shine on stage.

 My posing has significantly improved from last year, and even in a class of 15, I still got first call outs. What a GREAT feeling. I was in the "middle" for quite a while which was a great feeling.I was called out a second time in comparisons in another group as well. I had a lot of stage time and was feeling pretty good after pre-judging.

Bikini A and B Ladies!!!!

Since the morning show took so long, there was a little less than 2 hours before the night show. I stayed at the venue between shows and relaxed.  I was very excited to see my friends and family that were coming to the show. The Showdown sold out last week...so there was a line that went on forever for those who wanted to purchase a ticket for standing room only. It was amazing to see the amount of people who wanted to come and watch this amazing show. Thank you to all of you who came!!!!! I really appreciate it!!!!

In the pump up room

It was 6:00...my suit was glued on, I was oiled up, and ready to go! It was so exciting knowing that this was the big moment that I have been waiting for! I could hear my family and friends cheering in the audience. No matter what, I can always pick out my moms voice out of the crowd :) Off to the side, I saw a giant poster that said, GO MISS LINDBOM!!! I knew Mrs. S was in the audience :) We were filed off the stage and they called the top 5 contestants back on stage for awards. My number was called third and I went out on the stage with a giant smile on my face feeling so proud. I had a lot of really amazing physiques in my class, so it felt good to be standing up there in the end with those other 4 remarkable ladies.

Awards were presented......"And in 5th place...Sara Jean" My heart sank. The crowd went silent. I walked over to my trophy with a lump in my throat. Amanda Latona handed me my trophy (which ok...was FREAKING AWESOME!!!!!!!!!) and I stood there for what seemed like the longest minute of my life. I tried to smile like I was proud. It was so painful. I am not saying the other girls didn't deserve it....because they did. I just never thought in a million years I would take fifth. We filed off of the stage, and no matter how hard I tried, the tears came streaming down my face.

I didn't want anyone to see me upset. I didn't want to cry. I didn't want to be that girl...but I couldn't help it. I went in the dressing room and collapsed. My whole world came crashing down. I never worked harder for anything in my entire life. My schedule this semester was insanely busy with student teaching, and with all of the instability in my living situations I made sacrifices that were indescribable. I'll admit it now. For two whole freaking weeks I was homeless. I had no where to go. I lived in my car and slept in there when it was below freezing out, woke up every morning regardless, ran bleachers, showered at the gym, and ate tuna and cold rice because I didn't have a refrigerator. I hit rock bottom- and even then, I did not skip a beat. I did not give up. I did  not let anything stand in the way from my dreams. I was shaking and tears were flowing uncontrollably. Diana, and Cassandra came by me and they started crying too. They knew how hard I worked. They knew on top of my training, and diet I had obstacles that were barriers for the average individual. They knew how bad I wanted it.

I pulled myself together.  My friends reminded me how far I came. Just because my body wasn't 1st place material in the NPC's eyes...doesn't mean I am not a champion. I made progress this year that was out of this world. I competed 8 lbs heavier, at the same body fat as last year. EIGHT POUNDS!! Are you kidding me...that is some serious size for anyone. That my friends, is something for me to be proud of. Every single girl that beat me had a coach. I on the other hand to not. I do all of my training, diet, contest prep, and posing on my own. Yes, I have great support that helps me reach these goals, but in the end, I am my own coach.  My physique has improved so much, and I am very proud of it. I don't need a a medal to show that I won in the competition with myself. This whole experience only gives me fuel to add to my fire to keep on pushing to the top.

After the show it was late, but we all still went out for Sushi to celebrate! It was so amazing and delicous! Renee, Kristine, Diana, Karin, Cassandra, and I all sat together and enjoyed some tasty food! It was nice to see so many familiar faces after the show to celebrate the day. On the way home I talked to my girl and inspiration, Laura Gutilla. She gave me some insight that I will carry out with me as I make my way to the top. Thank you girl for your support...you are such a great role model to me....oh and I hope your Birthday is amazing today!!!!! <3 <3

I got home, showered off my protan, took out my extensions and laid in bed with my chocolate covered strawberries from Lori (BEST POST COMP TREAT EVER) and I fell asleep dreaming of what the future holds.

I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. There are so many variables in this sport..any other day..different judges, different line up....you never know what is going to happen.  Maybe the journey to IFBB Bikini land isn't the path I am meant to be on. Maybe something else is out there. Maybe I will try figure, do great thing in that division. The sky is the limit and the possibilities are endless.

I want to end this post by thanking Demetrius Alecos, the Fox Cities Showdown promoter. He is truly amazing and does everything in his power to make his show the best one in the states! Every detail is thought out and planned for an experience of a lifetime. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to once again change my life. Your show will always be a place I hold near to my heart.

<3 SJ XO

1 day out....

Hello Everyone!!!!

It felt amazing writing this date on the board after school last night. Cant believe it's here!!!!!

I had the opportunity to sleep in this morning....but do you think that happened? Nope...head popped off the pillow at 5:10am and I started pounding my water for the day. I looked in the mirror...and holy crap I was lookin' tight. I am really happy with where I am at!!! Mind blowing looking at the differences from last year and this year. I am really excited to show it all off tomorrow!!!!!

 I did not want to mess up my meal schedule because everything has been so incredibly consistent. Even though I was not in the classroom today, I am still ate the same times (after my shower, before announcements, lunch, afternoon recess, after school, before bed). It was sooooo weird not being in the classroom today. I missed the kids like crazy. I'd look at the time and think...."they are in reading right now..." or "the kids would be out for recess and I'd be eating tuna with Mrs S." Throughout the day I was in contact with Mrs. S about the school day. Fridays are pretty easy because we have book buddies with the third graders, library, and computer lab. I helped Mrs. S plan the rest of the day, and felt bad for not being there. She insisted this was my day and I needed to get ready for the Showdown. I am very excited to see her tomorrow at the night show, and have my family and friends meet the amazing mentor I have been working with since October.

I ran some errands today and picked up ingredients for my mom's homemade butter cream frosting that she is going to put on rice cakes for me to eat after the night show:) My mom is a professional cookie cake maker but since I cant that anymore with the gluten in it, she instead uses a cake decorater and makes my rice cakes all fancy with frosting and puts M&Ms on them. I am really excited :)  walked around the store forever...up and down the candy aisles but nothing appealed to me. I am not really looking to pig out after the show...I just want a few frosting rice cakes, my surprise from Lori...and some sushi and I'll be a happy girl!

I got my bag all packed up this afternoon and I am all set to go for the big day!

Bikini....Check!
Heels.....Check!
Silk robe...Check!
Flip flops...Check!
Jewelry.....Check!
Tuna and Rice....Check!
3M Super 77 Glue (Bonds many foils, plastics, papers, foams, metals, and cardboard.....uhhh they forgot bonds bikinis to rock hard bodies haha)...CHECK!!
Notes from my students...Check!
Honey...Check!
Resistance bands for pumping up....Check!
After party dress and heels....Check!

I had some down time so I decided to do the best thing and that was rest. I put in one of my Office dvds and I laid down for a while. I fell asleep and woke up to the door bell. I got up to see who was there...but it was no one. A package lay down at my feet. It had my name on it and I was SO excited!!! I opened it and inside was a surprise from my girl, Lori. Inside was....

CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES!!!!

I was literally jumping up and down in excitement!!! YAY!!!!! A post show treat...and its something I can actually eat!!! {Thank you girl!! I will arch it extra good for you tomorrow!!!!}

My bff Diana and I had our tanning appointments at 5pm so we went together. Ohhhhh the excitement of turning 20 shades darker in seconds :)

This is where the magic happens

 For all of you that have never been spray tanned...it is an experience. Let me tell you! You strip down and g in a tent and spray lady uses  an automatic spray gun thing that shoots out freezing cold spray on your body. You stand there and rotate, moving your legs and arms in certain angles to make sure every inch is covered. Between coats the freezing continues as you dry in front of a fan. After about 15 minutes of freezing cold air...the lady comes back and does another coat :) I had my tan done through Liquid Sun Rayz and Yvonne did my tan. She did a super job!!!! :) I will get touch ups tomorrow before the show.

2 coats later...:) JACKED AND TAN!!! Thank you Yvonne at Liquid Sun Rayz

After the spray tan appointment, Diana and I went to Walmart to pick up a few final things. We were thinking...o gosh we are going to get weird looks. Ok...funny thing is no one even said anything. We apparently blended right in haha :) We picked up some movies to watch for the night.

Time to put my legs up....relax...and dream about giant medals :)))
<3  SJ XO