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!!
 --------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

2 days out....ELEMENTARY SHOWDOWN :)

Hello Everyone!

I cannot believe how the week is flying by! Every day has been jam packed for me, and I am giving it 125% heart, passion, and dedication. I woke up this morning hoping it was only like 3:00am, and I'd have a few more hours of rest...but nope...it was 5:15...almost time to wake up. I went to bed later than normal last night because one of my best friends, Corey, came to town and I wanted to catch up. It was really nice to see him.

I cannot believe the 2012 FOX CITIES SHOWDOWN is SOLD OUT!!!!!! I found out the news yesterday when I got home from school. There are still tickets for the night show for $10 but it is standing room only. If you are still planning on coming...I would still order your tickets because I am sure only so many people can be standing too.

I got ready this morning, packed up my car for the weekend, and headed to school early. The sun was shining and there were also a lot of stratus clouds {applying the new second grade knowledge haha) so either it is going to rain...or maybe if I'm lucky it will past on through. I hope the sun stays out...could use a little cheeriness in my day.  Today was my last chance to get caught up on things before the busy weekend arrived.




:) Excitement after the Show


The students came in and we had a very busy morning planned with a special program with the other second grade classrooms celebrating diversity, and also a school gathering in the gymnasuim. Dancers/Performers from Africa came to school...and little did I know I was going to be performing too. The dancers were very animated and the kids loved it! They played drums and danced, and were very engaging with the audience. One of the dances was an competition dance between two men and they went back and fourth "competing" with their flips and muscle flexing. As soon as the kids saw that they went wild and they made sure to let the performers know that Miss Lindbom is a body builder. Before I knew it was was on stage dancing with the performers (thank goodness for my mad Zumba abilities haha), and one of them picked me up above in the air and then we all flexed our muscles for the kids. SHOWDOWN AT THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL :) 
One of the performers came up to me and told the kids..."Your teacher is very healthy. I bet she eats her fruits and vegetables!"
A little girl replied, " Actually Miss Lindbom eats tuna, rice, and brocolli SIX times a day!"
All of this happened and it wasn't even lunch time yet. What an amazing morning!

In the afternoon, we did our usual math, music, spelling, and science. We continued our cloud observation books...and it was a beautiful day outside for it.

A student handed me a note and told me I had to pack it for the weekend. Here is what it says:

Good Luck Miss Lindbom. i hope you get to be a Perfeshanal Body Builder. That is cool that my Uncle works out at your gym. After I saw you flex your arms, I know your going to win.
GOOD LUCK!
PS- I think you are going to be the best one there I think your going to whoop them by a lot of points. When you said a long time ago you saw all those buteful woman on stage and wanted to be like them, you are one of them, Miss Lindbom because you started body building.

I am definately saving that note forever. That is enough for me...knowing my students look up to me. In my heart, that is winning to me.


Something for me to look forward to on Monday morning :)

 After school I headed back to the Fox Cities. The drive home was relaxing and it gave me a chance to gather all of my thoughts before the craziness began. My mind got lost thinking about the stage....thinking about the emotions that would over come me as I let my hard work shine. My eyes filled with tears....I thought...holy shit...it is almost here. I want this more than anything. I have worked harder for this the past 17 weeks than I have for anything else in my entire life. Blood, Sweat, and Tears went into this. Dedication, Passion, and Heart. 125% every day with NO EXCUSES. As Saturday unfolds it will be part of another journey...the journey to chasing after my dream of becoming an IFBB Bikini Pro this summer.  I believe I can do it. I have the work ethic, and I know I am never going to give up. This is my dream...and I am not going to let anyone take it out from underneath my feet. 

::Don't dream the dream...LIVE it and MAKE it YOURS::

When I got back into my home town area, I met my Iron Sister, Diana and her daughter for some Showdown pampering :) We got our nails done and shared out excitement for the weekend. It was a much needed  stress evening with two of my favorite girls! THANK YOU DIANA FOR BEING AMAZING!!!! :)) Team DIRTY BEAN!!! woot woot woot!!

It was so nice to come home and see my mom! She is always so supportive of me. She had chicken and brocolli in the refrigerator ready to go for the weekend. {THANKS MOMMY!}

At night I took another shower and exfoliated again. I have been using my exfoliater all week to prep my body for the spray tan. I also completed my full body shave so I would be all set to go for the weekend!

Tomorrow at this time I am going to be jacked and tan....very, very, tan :)))

Night everyone!!!!

<3 SJ XO

3 days out....

Hello Everyone!

Wow I cannot believe just three days to go! I sure hope they fly by because BABY, I'M READY! :)

Woke up this morning after getting less than 5 hours of sleep. The excitement is taking over my body and I cannot relax no matter how hard I try. Even with the lack of sleep, I still jumped out of bed and got ready for my day. I was excited to go to school with my new blonde hair and lash extensions. I could only imagine what the kids were going to say...they notice every detail. On the way to school I heard the song, Part of Me by Katy Perry and it made me smile. I love this song because it reminds me of my dreams and the journey I am on. I am working so incredibly hard, and the beauty of it is that no one can take it away from me. No one can take the feelings and emotions I feel on stage. The experience, the memories, the sense of accomplishment is mine.

I got to school early again so I could get ahead on my lessons for the following week. I also checked the job posting board online to see if any more positions opened up. I have applied to 6 different school districts so far....some by Point and some in the Fox Cities. I applied to a third grade position this morning that is located back in the area I am from....so that would be awesome!!! Everything happens for a reason...God has a plan :)

Another fun day at school  today. The students made a cloud project with cotton and created the different types of clouds. We also read, Cloud with a Chance of Meatballs. The students created their own land and talked about the type of weather that occurred. One of my students wrote about the land of Miss Lindbom where it rained tuna, rice, broccoli. It was so cute!

I am starting to really feel drained and not performing up to my normal level during the school day. I noticed today while correcting the students' math story problems my mind was stuck. Even when the kids were writing today and asking for spelling of certain words I had to think extra hard about it. My mind is going in every direction and I am not getting the rest I need. The students and my teacher are all understanding and do nothing but support me and give me boosts to get me through the long day. Monday and Tuesday I had a headache by second recess and it carried on throughout the night.

The school day ended up being a good one. The kids always give me an extra burst of energy. Every day that I get to spend with my second graders and Mrs. S is truly a gift <3

All day I was anticipating the arrival of one of my best friends, and training partner, Corey. He was coming to the area tonight and I have not seen him since last semester because he was away at his internship. He is an amazing friend, and thanks to him, and his time and efforts I made significant progress in the areas I was lacking. Thanks for everything, Boss!!!!

I had a KILLER workout in the gym tonight! My buddy Alex drilled me for 40 minutes with an intense ab workout and then he had to leave for a group project so I ended my final workout completing one exercise 4 sets each per muscle group. Corey came in the gym at the end of my workout and we had a chance to catch up. It was SOOO good to see him and he was very proud of the progress I made even while he was away for the semester.

I was amazed with the amount of energy I had in the gym tonight. I am surprised I am still awake right now haha When I got home I made up my rice for the weekend and talked to my Iron Sister, Diana on the phone for over an hour. It was sooo nice to catch up and finalize our plans for our big weekend!!! I am so excited to see her tomorrow and get our nails done Woot Woot:)))

Alright...anymore talking and it will just be a rambled mess. Time to crash :)

Night!!!!! HOLY CRAP-OLA....2 DAYS tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

<3 SJ xo

4 days out....

Hello Everyone!

Thanks for following on my journey. It is nice to see that so many are reading my posts! It really means a lot that I have so much support.

I woke up this morning before my alarm went off as usual. I heard the birds singing out my window, and I popped right out of bed and headed down stairs to shower. I was feeling pretty good, and got a decent  6 hours of sleep. I went to the mirror as I do every morning and I checked out my progress. I am really, really proud of where I am at. Each day I think I am ready, and then I check myself over and can't believe the night and day changes I have. Just FOUR days to go....holy shit it's almost here :)

I looked at my clothes hanging up...what to wear...what to wear. I checked the weather...28 degrees. I looked at my clothes again...I really did not feel like drowning in dress pants 5 sizes too big so I decided I would take the chance of freezing and threw on my sun dress and a sweater. I got ready for school, and headed out early again.

I walked in the classroom and Mrs. S had the new microwave waiting for me. Yay for warm meals again and no more cold tuna, rice, and broccoli! I cranked through some lesson plans for next week because the last thing I want to do on Saturday between prejudging and the night show is writing lessons and grading papers :) I am staying organized and planning ahead so I will be all set for Monday. No excuses.



Thank you Mrs. S!



My energy level today has been again around a 6.5, and my motivation at a 10. Again, I am so thankful to have such a wonderful, cooperating teacher to spend my days with. She is understanding with my meals and now my overloading of water intake. I couldn't do it without you, Mrs. S!!!!!



The kids came in for the day and they boost my spirits right away with their smiles and excitement. Mrs. S and I had a fun day planned with our weather unit. The students were continuing their cloud book. We go outside and look at the clouds once a day for a week, draw pictures and write about it. We also talked about different types of weather today and the students wrote poems. Below is a poem a student wrote and gave to me. She drew a picture of herself and me playing outside. Too cute:) Tuesdays are also great because the kids have music AND art so it gives me a chance to catch up on grading, documenting, and planning ahead.



Pictures from the kids today :)



A student surprised me at lunch and illustrated a picture of me at the "Muscle Show". He drew me with the giant medal on and a trophy thats says: 1st Place, Best Lighfter

:) I'll be sure to pack that in my bag for Saturday. I told the kids if I earn that giant medal, I'll bring it to school and let them try it on. Are they jacked or what!?! haha

By lunch time I had 1 gallon of water down again. I made the mistake of walking in the teacher lounge and there was food everywhere. I think it was for secretaties day. There was ...cookies...cake loaded with frosting...pizza..subs...cheese and crackers...chocolate...cake pops....and more. I went back to the room right away and got out my third meal of the day. All I can say...is brown rice will never get old. I look forward to it everyday. It is my new oatmeal this season :)

By the time the kids were in art I was feeling pretty run down and my head started hurting again. It almost feels like I am dehydrated but that doesn't make sense because I am flooding my body with water. I think I just need to get more rest .

After school, I had my hair appointment to look forward to. Exhale....Relaxation for 90 minutes). I started going to Salon Envy this fall, and the owner, Jessica Richie is my stylist. She is AMAZING let me tell you! Even when I graduate and  if move out of the area, I will drive back because she is just that good. She has been so supportive, and helps me in any way she can. She did my hair on Saturday for my photo shoot, and she is driving to my house the morning of the show just so I do not have to stress about that too. 
I love love love my highlights!!! Sooo prettty!!!!!! Also a thank you to Lauren for doing my lash extension :) I am ready to rock!!!!
THANK YOU MIZZ RICHIE!!!!! YOU ARE THE BEST!!! It feels great to be blonde again!!!!!!

After my hair appointment I went home to make some more food for the next few days. I am so thankful for my rice cooker this season. It is a life saver!!!

I just packed up my meals for tomorrow while enjoying my egg whites. I don't care what anyone says...microwaved egg whites are delicious. They are light and fluffy and I look forward to them every night. (crazy...I know...)

Well...tomorrow is another day! Make every one count!!!!  Good night:))

<3 SJ xo